Although the COVID-19 pandemic has placed Americans in many unprecedented situations, it has also done much to disrupt the 2020 Presidential Election.
This would normally be a year where much of the focus would be on the various peaks, valleys, gaffes, and controversies on the campaign trail, but we’re essentially finding that there is no campaign trail in 2020.
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So while it may normally be expected for a candidate to pay their respects to veterans on Memorial Day, the context under which such a tribute unfolds in today’s story can suddenly turn it into big news.
Ever since the middle of March, former Vice President and current presidential candidate Joe Biden has largely stayed home.
As CNN reported , he has left the house for walks and bike rides since the coronavirus put his campaign on hold, but he hasn’t gone farther than his Delaware neighborhood until today.
In the meantime, his campaign efforts have mostly occurred over the internet.
Although CNN reported , that some of his colleagues in the Democratic Party have expressed concern over what this isolation will mean for his chances in November, he has nonetheless held digital meet-ups like the one shown here with media representatives, celebrities, and figures within the party.
On Memorial Day, however, he ventured outward alongside his wife Jill for the first time in months for a special reason.
As CNN reported , he visited the veteran’s memorial at the Delaware Memorial Bridge and placed the wreath that we see here.
The Bidens then stood solemnly with their heads bowed before turning away to speak briefly to reporters.
He was also careful to wear a face mask and kept it on both during his tribute and while addressing the journalists present.
To them, he said, “Never forget the sacrifices that these men and women made. Never, ever, forget.”
He then left the memorial site.
Memorial Day carries a personal and painful significance for Biden.
As CNN reported , this is because his oldest son Beau was an Army veteran.
Beau would pass away from brain cancer in 2015 at 46-years-old. Biden has since said that part of his soul has gone away after this tragedy.
h/t: CNN
