President Joe Biden criticized racist jokes made at Donald Trump’s rally by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, specifically calling out comments about Puerto Ricans as “garbage” during a Latino voter outreach video call. The White House clarified that Biden was condemning the remarks, not Trump supporters, despite some backlash from Republicans. Vice President Kamala Harris was expected to give a speech on unity, but attention shifted to Biden’s comments. Trump campaign figures and supporters criticized the remarks as divisive and disrespectful to Americans. Democrats, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, expressed disappointment in the rhetoric. Harris, when asked in an interview on Fox News, denied referring to Trump supporters as “stupid” and instead criticized Trump’s attitude towards Americans in his rallies. Democratic strategist Chris Kofinis noted that both campaigns seemed to be engaging in negative rhetoric, potentially losing support. The controversy over Biden’s comments overshadowed Harris’ planned speech about a new generation of leadership in America and the need for unity. Attention from Biden’s remarks diverted from the message of unity that Harris hoped to convey, with Republicans seizing on the opportunity to criticize Democrats.
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