Ahead of the upcoming U.S. Presidential election, President Joe Biden sparked controversy by briefly wearing a red “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) cap, a signature item of Republican candidate Donald Trump.
The moment occurred during an event marking the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
During a visit with firefighters in Pennsylvania, near the crash site of one of the hijacked planes, videos captured Biden engaging in a lighthearted conversation with a Trump supporter.
The supporter, wearing a MAGA cap, exchanged headgear with the president after Biden offered him a hat bearing the presidential seal, which he autographed.
In a playful exchange, Biden joked about his age, saying, “I don’t remember my name, I’m slow,” before briefly donning the Trump cap, drawing cheers from onlookers.
The incident quickly gained attention on social media, with Trump’s campaign expressing gratitude for what they saw as an endorsement.
However, the White House clarified that Biden’s actions were meant to highlight the unity theme of the day.
Deputy White House Press Secretary Andrew Bates explained, “As a gesture, he gave a hat to a Trump supporter, who in turn suggested the president wear his Trump cap, which he did in the same spirit.”
