Title: Demonstrating Vigor and Intellect: The Power of Visual Storytelling in Addressing Concerns over Biden’s Age
The age-old adage, “show, don’t tell,” emphasizes the significance of making a point through actions rather than mere words. This principle was succinctly illustrated in the recent opening sketch of Saturday Night Live (SNL). The show satirized various allies of President Joe Biden, who have vehemently defended him against detractors questioning his fitness for another term due to concerns about cognitive abilities.
In the sketch, SNL cast member Michael Longfellow portrayed California Governor Gavin Newsom in an interview setting with Heidi Gardner as CNN anchor Dana Bash. The dialogue revolved around public apprehensions regarding Biden’s age, particularly his cognitive capabilities in light of several verbal stumbles. However, members of Biden’s team have consistently insisted that he is as sharp and mentally acute when away from the public eye.
The SNL sketch humorously depicted a myriad of Biden defenders, including White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre (Ego Nwodim) and US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (Marcello Hernandez). In the sketch, Jean-Pierre, who describes Biden as “the most vigorous man I’ve ever known,” displayed his supposedly impressive daily schedule that included a 7 a.m. entry for a SoulCycle class, with the added comment: “And I’m not talking about taking one. He leads it.”
Furthermore, Biden was depicted as besting NBA player Draymond Green in pickup basketball and defeating the Joint Chiefs of Staff in a push-up contest. The SNL sketch effectively conveyed the same message as comedian Jon Stewart had during his return to hosting duties at “The Daily Show” last month.
Stewart playfully questioned, “Did anyone film that? … That would be good to show to people.” Once again, the power of visual storytelling was on display. Later this week, Biden will have an opportunity to demonstrate his vigor and mental acuity to the American people through the State of the Union address.
During last year’s State of the Union speech, Biden handled GOP hecklers with great success by addressing them directly and engaging in lighthearted banter. When Republican lawmakers like Marjorie Taylor Greene booed Biden after stating that some Republicans wanted to cut Social Security and Medicare, he remained poised and even joked about the situation.
Biden’s ability to handle policy matters combined with quick wit and levity is essential as the 2024 presidential race gains momentum. During an appearance on NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers, Biden humorously addressed his age and the subsequent “age question” by jokingly remarking that Trump couldn’t remember his wife’s name.
Biden then pivoted to more substantial issues, dismissing age as a significant impediment and focusing on policy matters that would resonate with voters. His approach involves addressing concerns while utilizing comedy to engage the audience, which is well within his comfort zone.
Each State of the Union speech holds great importance for an incumbent president, and this Thursday’s address will be Biden’s most critical one yet. He must present a bold vision for a second term that inspires voters while addressing domestic issues and foreign policy concerns, such as the war in Gaza. The judicious employment of humor will further enhance Biden’s case with voters.
