Biden Targets Red States in MSNBC Interview [WATCH]

Joe Biden, in his final days in office, continues efforts to frame his presidency in a positive light despite widespread criticism of his tenure.

With approval ratings at historic lows and a legacy marked by economic struggles and international unrest, Biden appeared on MSNBC’s “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” Thursday night for a reflective interview.

The appearance follows his farewell address from the Oval Office, which many observers have described as somber and lackluster.

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Biden’s presidency is set to conclude Monday as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office for his second term.

In his interview, Biden spoke about what he perceives as threats to democracy, calling this moment in history an “inflection point.”

“That sounds corny. But I mean, I really, really am concerned, because you’ve heard me say it 100 times, I really think we’re in an inflection point in history here. Where unrelated to any particular leader,” Biden said.

He elaborated on the importance of institutional “guardrails” such as the Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidency.

“The thing that keeps it on track are the guardrails. There’s a Supreme Court that’s independent, but not accountable. There is a Congress that you speak your mind, but you’re held accountable to basic standards. There’s a presidency that says you have really limited powers. I mean, you’re the top dog, but you can’t dictate everything. And I don’t know, they seem to just be chipping away at all those elements.”

An amazing open to Biden’s interview with MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell. And by amazing I mean horrifying. A simple question, “how did you feel after the speech”, is met with an addled word salad pic.twitter.com/R1g8LoE340

— Jorge Bonilla (@BonillaJL) January 17, 2025

Critics argue that Biden himself has contributed to the erosion of these democratic “guardrails.”

His administration has faced accusations of politicizing the judicial system, attempting to influence the Supreme Court, and supporting measures perceived as stifling free speech.

Biden’s presidency has been marred by significant economic challenges, including inflation and soaring interest rates, which critics say have made homeownership and basic living expenses increasingly unattainable for ordinary Americans.

His administration’s foreign policy approach has also drawn criticism amid ongoing international conflicts.

The November elections further reflected public discontent, as Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden’s chosen successor, suffered a decisive defeat.

Biden’s Oval Office farewell speech has been criticized for its tone and delivery, with many viewers noting the president’s difficulty articulating his message.

Despite this, his words on MSNBC were notably clearer, though some found his remarks lacking in substance.

BIDEN: “Red states really screwed up in terms of the way they handled their economy!”

(Biden’s brain is literal pudding — red states are at the top of job creation and economic growth post-pandemic) pic.twitter.com/wPt43fQXYJ

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) January 17, 2025

His appearance with O’Donnell follows reports that White House staff limited press access during his final days.

O’Donnell himself acknowledged that reporters had been ushered out of the room during Biden’s earlier remarks, a move some critics interpreted as emblematic of the administration’s approach to media transparency.

Biden’s efforts to shape his legacy come amid a stark contrast with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

Trump’s victory and the shift in congressional control reflect a broader repudiation of Biden-era policies, according to political analysts.

While Biden attempts to emphasize his career-long commitment to public service, critics have pointed to what they see as failures in governance and leadership.

As the transition of power nears completion, Biden’s presidency will remain a focal point of political discussion, with assessments of his tenure likely to shape the narrative around his time in office for years to come.

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