President Biden was briefed by aides on the Iran helicopter crash carrying President Raisi. Administration officials have not learned much more than what's being reported by Iran state media. Today, the president was busy with major appearances. He gave the keynote address to the graduating class at Morehouse College, a historically black university in Atlanta. As he aims to strengthen his appeal ahead of November, he is also scheduled to speak at an NAACP event in Detroit.
The White House confirmed that President Biden has been briefed on the Iran crash but has not provided additional details. Congressman Pat Fallon commented on the situation, expressing skepticism due to the nature of the Iranian regime. Speculation suggests the crash may have been accidental, possibly due to maintenance issues or pilot error.
Earlier today, President Biden addressed the Morehouse College graduates, a significant demographic for his re-election campaign. Some attendees turned their backs on the president during his speech. With Biden trailing in polls, particularly among black voters and in swing states, the White House viewed this event as an opportunity for the president to improve his standing.
Congresswoman Elise Stefanik criticized Biden's Israel policy, attributing it to his declining poll numbers in states like Michigan. Meanwhile, anti-Israel protesters gathered at the National Mall during a commencement address at George Washington University, where Jen Psaki, Biden's former press secretary, was speaking.
President Biden is currently in Detroit, another crucial swing state, engaging in various events to appeal to black voters. His efforts include attending the NAACP Freedom dinner tonight. The president's active schedule this week reflects his campaign strategy to connect with key voter demographics and address pressing issues both domestically and internationally.