Biden Visits Dublin Amid Protests, Two Arrested
Former President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Trinity College Dublin on Tuesday. He attended a ceremony where his son Hunter Biden received a gold medal.
- The College Historical Society awarded Hunter Biden its gold medal for public discourse.
- Biden also met privately with Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
- Protesters outside threw objects as Biden left; police arrested at least two.
- Protesters shouted accusations over Gaza, including blood on your hands.
Why it matters: Biden, 83, recently said prostate cancer would limit appearances for his upcoming memoir. The trip raised questions in some coverage about that limit.
- The society cited Hunter Biden's advocacy on politics, media and addiction recovery.
- Hunter Biden was convicted on gun and tax charges, then pardoned by his father.
How 9 sources split on this story
Where they split: Coverage divides over whether the story is the protest and Biden's health, or whether Hunter Biden deserved the honor at all.
Left coverage, 1 sources: The left frames the story around a former president's family moment disrupted by protesters and arrests, alongside his cancer diagnosis.
Right coverage, 6 sources: The right questions why Hunter Biden, with his convictions and pardon, was honored, and why an ill Biden could travel but not tour.
What’s next: Biden's memoir, Promise Me, America, is scheduled for release Nov. 17.
- Spokesman TJ Ducklo said Biden was supporting his son and urged readers to preorder the book.
- Whether those arrested will face charges has not been reported.
- How Biden's health allowed overseas travel but not a full book tour remains unaddressed by his office.
