First Lady Jill Biden took the lead during President Joe Biden’s Cabinet meeting on Friday, marking a significant moment as she directed much of the public portion of what may be her husband’s final such meeting in office. As discussions shifted from the president’s remarks about a crucial short-term funding bill to her agenda, many observers were left questioning who is truly in charge.
During the meeting, President Biden briefly addressed Congress’s need to pass a continued resolution, emphasizing the urgency with only ten days remaining. However, he quickly turned the focus to his wife, acknowledging her presence at a Cabinet meeting for the first time. “We’re grateful that Jill is here today — I heard that clapping, it wasn’t for me,” he joked before passing the floor to her.
Jill Biden then spoke at length about recent initiatives related to women’s health, detailing the launch of a new health research agency, ARPA-H, created by her husband. Her remarks outpaced the president’s in both duration and substance, further highlighting her role in the administration.
Critics have since voiced their concerns. Steve Cortes, a former advisor to Donald Trump, questioned the leadership dynamics with a pointed tweet, asking, “Who is running the country?” Former Virginia Congressman Scott Taylor echoed this sentiment, noting the unusual circumstance of Jill Biden hosting the Cabinet meeting.
Later in the day, the First Lady hosted a celebratory event in the Rose Garden for the 25th anniversary of the TV series The West Wing, where she spoke to attendees about the challenges of leadership and collaboration. Her ability to engage with high-profile guests, including the show’s cast, raised eyebrows, especially as the president was not present.
With only four months remaining in this administration, Jill Biden’s increased visibility and leadership at such key moments have sparked ongoing discussions about the evolving roles within the White House.
