President Joe Biden's participation in a high-profile fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall, alongside former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, took an unexpected turn when the event was disrupted by protesters.
The trio, engaged in an interview with Stephen Colbert, faced the ire of pro-Palestinian demonstrators, who passionately voiced their grievances. One protester directly addressed President Biden, accusing him of having “blood on [his] hands,” while another protester raised concerns about the risk of nuclear conflict with Russia.
“You're out of your f—ing minds,” interrupted one protestor. Outside, many participants shouted, “Genocide Joe, it is time to go.”
Originally intended as a glamorous affair attended by prominent donors, some of whom paid exorbitant ticket prices costing as much as $500,000, the event quickly became a scene of tension and discord. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump made a separate visit to New York City to pay respects at a wake for a slain NYPD officer.
Entertainers such as Lizzo and Mindy Kaling provided additional entertainment during the fundraiser, adding to the star-studded atmosphere. However, outside the venue, more pro-Palestinian protesters gathered, expressing their discontent with Biden's leadership and accusing him of war crimes.
The disruption by protestors occurred as Colbert was discussing topics with Obama and Clinton, prompting a shift in focus to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Despite the interruptions, President Biden expressed a nuanced view, acknowledging the suffering of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians and emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid.
Biden recounted harrowing accounts of violence, including a tragic incident involving a mother and daughter targeted by Hamas terrorists. He highlighted diplomatic efforts to address the conflict and reiterated the importance of pursuing a two-state solution.
Former President Obama weighed in on the challenges of leadership and empathized with Biden's position. He emphasized the complexities of the situation and expressed solidarity with both the Israeli people and innocent victims of violence.
Amidst the serious discussions, there were moments of levity as Biden referenced a famous quote about presidential companionship and joked about his experience flying on Air Force One. The former presidents, along with Colbert, donned Biden's signature aviator sunglasses as a lighthearted conclusion to the event.
I'm a man who “love two things: Ray Ban sunglasses and ice cream,” Biden said of himself.
“By the way, Dark Brandon is real,” he said of his alter ego – an online creation who's more sinister by nature.
Following the disruption from protestors, the trio of presidents continued their activities, recording a podcast episode with comedians Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. Meanwhile, videos shared online showed attendees inside the venue seemingly oblivious to the chaos unfolding outside.
Earlier in the day, Biden arrived in New York City accompanied by Obama, further underscoring their collaborative efforts in support of the Biden administration. Obama's involvement in Biden's reelection campaign follows reports of his concerns about the challenges facing the current administration.
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