In 2021, President Joe Biden was reported to have only granted 16 interviews.
Biden’s 16 interviews were far less than his two most recent predecessors. A CBS reporter reported that Donald Trump conducted 72 interviews in the same time period while Barack Obama did a staggering 155.
Biden’s interview shortlist is:
ABC – ABC 3
CBS – 2
NBC – 2
MSNBC – 1
UNIVISION – 1.
ESPN – 1
PRINT – 3
Local TV – 3
CNN Town Halls – 3
Biden has not only evaded interviews but also escaped from the White House.
Biden, reportedly on December 17, conducted his 30th retreat in Delaware for a total duration of 89 days.
Biden was far less likely to be in the Oval Office than Trump, Obama and George Bush at the same time.
Trump spent 41 days in Palm Beach, Bedminster and Obama spent eight days on Martha’s Vineyard while Bush spent 57 days at Texas ranch.
Biden’s absence at the White House and interactions with media made Monday reporters wonder when Biden would answer questions about high crime and inflation and the devastating withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Jen Psaki, White House Press Secretary, responded with “It depends upon what you ask.”
The president, for his part, has repeatedly stated to the media that he was under orders from his apparent handlers not to answer questions.