Joe Biden chose to go his granddaughter’s graduation from her elite high school in Washington, D.C., rather than attend a major Democratic gathering in Iowa where nearly all his 2020 rivals were speaking.
While 19 Democrats made their case before voters In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Biden was seeing Maisy Biden, 18, get her high school diploma from the Sidwell Friends in the District of Columbia’s leafy northwest section, along with her friend Sasha Obama, former President Barack Obama’s younger daughter.
His decision to miss the event comes after his failure to attend a 2020 gathering of liberals in California and a notably light schedule in which Biden, 76, is holding less than half the number of events of his rivals.
“Jill and I were so thrilled to be there today to watch our amazing granddaughter Maisy graduate from high school,” Biden wrote on Instagram. “Maisy, you make us so proud and we can’t wait to see what you do next with your talent, smarts, dedication and kindness. The future is yours, and Nana and Pop will always be right behind you.”
Jill Biden also posted a picture on Instagram congratulating Maisy Biden:
A number of Democratic insiders and strategists have noted Biden’s absence from the campaign trail. This week, Biden will make his second visit to Iowa, despite announcing back in April.
Maisy Biden is the daughter of Hunter Biden, the former vice president and senator’s surviving son.
