First Lady Jill Biden found herself at the center of social media speculation after her interaction, or lack thereof, with Vice President Kamala Harris at Arlington National Cemetery. The two attended a Veterans Day event on Tuesday, November 12, where President Joe Biden laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Virginia.
Harris and her husband, Douglas Emhoff, approached their seats to the First Lady’s right. However, social media users were quick to notice that while the Vice President greeted others seated nearby, she appeared to pass Jill Biden without acknowledgment. The First Lady, wearing dark sunglasses, looked straight ahead and did not appear to engage with Harris.
Several online commentators were quick to analyze the scene. Conservative commentator Steve Cortes shared a clip of the moment, stating, “It’s safe to say that Jill Biden hates Kamala Harris’ guts.” The video sparked a wave of reactions, with users debating whether the first lady’s demeanor was intentional.
Journalist Andy Ngo, known for his critical views, also weighed in, describing Jill Biden as “stone-faced” while seated next to Harris. He noted, “Harris supporters are already pointing fingers at President Biden for her recent loss.”
Further fueling the controversy, Italian journalist Leonardo Panetta commented on X, saying, “Jill Biden… did not get up to greet her and then remained seated next to the Vice President wearing sunglasses without deigning to look at her. Good climate in America.”
The event was significant as it marked the first joint appearance of President Biden and Vice President Harris since her loss in the recent election to Donald Trump. Social media was ablaze with reactions, with right-wing commentator Benny Arthur Johnson remarking, “They’re not taking the loss well.”
Despite the apparent tension, the First Lady did reportedly greet Emhoff warmly, according to sources. However, the lack of interaction with Harris stood out to many observers. Conservative author David Harris Jr. suggested that the perceived coldness might indicate a deeper rift within the Democratic Party after the election upset.
Jill Biden has previously campaigned alongside Harris, emphasizing their shared experiences of personal loss. Yet, at the Arlington event, her reserved demeanor was in stark contrast to earlier displays of camaraderie.
On Wednesday, Jill Biden is scheduled to deliver remarks in Philadelphia at a gala for the Philadelphia250 organization, which is planning celebrations for America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
The White House has not issued any statements addressing the social media reactions, despite multiple outlets reaching out for comments.
