Biden unveils new nickname for Trump fans as he replies to heckler: ‘Everyone is entitled to be an idiot’
Lone man heckled president during Labor Day remarks in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.President Joe Biden quipped that a heckler was “entitled to be a idiot” when he was interrupted during a speech on Monday.
Mr Biden was giving remarks in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to mark the Labor Day public holiday, where he used the nickname “Trumpies” to describe followers of his predecessor.
As he addressed the crowd at LaborFest — a family-focused event themed on the labour union promise to “organise for the future — a man could be heard shouting from the crowd.
Reporters say that the man was seated near the stage, but it was unclear what he was yelling.
The heckler was quickly removed by security, while this was being done, Mr Biden encouraged security to let him go.
“Let him go. Everyone is entitled to be an idiot,” the president said, drawing laughter and cheers from the crowd.
He later appeared to reference the critic and other Trump supporters as he said: “The biggest contrast from what MAGA Republicans, the extreme right...the Trumpies...these MAGA Republicans in Congress are coming for your Social Security as well.”
The bleachers at the venue were nearly full when President Biden took the stage just before 12.30pm. Rows of attendees also stood behind the bleachers.
The crowd stood and cheered loudly as Mr Biden began his remarks and at several points throughout his speech.
Many raised their cell phones to take photos and videos of the speech. Some waved American flags and the president waded through the crowds greeting people after he finished speaking.
President Biden was introduced by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, a Democrat, and by Laborers Local 113 member Eduardo Marquez.
“We have a president who understands the challenges facing families and is willing to work with us to find common sense solutions,” Mr Evers said of the president.
Mr Marquez commented on the bipartisan infrastructure law passed under President Biden “that will create so many jobs for labourers to repair our bridges, water systems, and many other things.”
President Biden’s remarks focused on his administration’s work to create middle-class jobs. At several points, he made comments critical of “ultra-Maga” Republicans.
“We remain in the battle for the soul of America,” Mr Biden said, echoing his speech last week in Philadelphia, at which he also defended the rights of protesters assembled nearby and audible during his remarks.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments