Former President Joe Biden recently gave a speech at an LGBTQ+ conference in Washington, D.C., where he briefly stumbled over the word “America.” The moment was small, but it quickly became a focus online, leading to more discussion about his age and health.
Biden was speaking at the International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference, an event that brings together LGBTQ+ elected officials, activists, and leaders from across the United States. During the speech, he accepted an award that recognized his administration’s efforts to include and support LGBTQ+ people. About 15 percent of the people he appointed to government roles identify as LGBTQ+, according to the organization hosting the event.
As he encouraged the audience to keep fighting for equal rights, Biden tried to deliver an emotional line about the country. He said, “We’re the United States of Amerigotit,” seeming to mix the words together. He quickly continued, trying to keep the energy strong, saying that Americans must “keep the faith,” “protect the Constitution,” and “remember who we are.”
Biden used the moment to criticize Donald Trump and Trump’s supporters, saying they have used people’s identities as a political weapon and tried to make LGBTQ+ rights seem frightening or harmful. He said the real issue is simple: every person deserves decency, dignity, and respect.
He spoke about the struggles many LGBTQ+ young people face, saying some feel isolated and unsure if they will ever be accepted for who they are. Biden said he remains hopeful, even if progress is not always fast or guaranteed.
Online, people reacted in different ways. Some supporters focused on his message about equality. Others mocked the brief word stumble, turning the moment into a viral clip. Political commentators on the right said his speech showed he was angry or out of touch. People who support him argued that his commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is what truly matters.
The slip-up has renewed talk about Biden’s age and how clearly he communicates in public. With the political climate already tense, especially around LGBTQ+ issues, even a small mistake has become part of a bigger debate. Advocacy groups say they will continue pushing for protections and representation, while Trump and his allies take very different positions on issues like transgender health care and military service.
The event brought attention again to questions of leadership, inclusion, and how the country will move forward on civil rights. Both major political parties are expected to keep fighting over these issues in the months ahead, making speeches like this one even more closely watched.
