The unveiling of a portrait at Syracuse University became a moment of unexpected awkwardness for President Joe Biden. Returning to the campus where he once studied law, Biden was present for the dedication of his official portrait, destined for permanent display in the law library.
His academic history at Syracuse, however, is a complex one. While the university celebrated an alumnus reaching the nation’s highest office, records reveal Biden finished 76th in his class of 85 – a stark contrast to repeated claims he made throughout his career about graduating near the top.
This pattern of embellishment isn’t new. During his 1987 presidential campaign, accusations of plagiarism and misrepresentation of his academic record forced him to withdraw from the race, casting a long shadow over his public persona.
The ceremony itself was marked by a visibly surprised reaction from Biden as he first gazed upon the completed portrait. Observers noted the artwork’s unusual coloring, with some commenting on a distinctly orange hue to the President’s depiction.
Following the unveiling, Biden delivered an 18-minute speech that quickly veered into an uncomfortable exchange. He repeatedly addressed Jeffrey Scruggs, the chairman of the Syracuse University Board of Trustees, as “Barack.”
The repeated misidentification, directed at a Black man, drew noticeable reactions from the audience. Biden gestured emphatically towards Scruggs, repeatedly inviting him forward and commenting on their perceived resemblance to former President Barack Obama.
“I always want to turn around to one guy and say, ‘Barack, what are you doing?’” Biden stated, seemingly oblivious to the growing discomfort. He continued to draw attention to the comparison, asking if Scruggs didn’t “look like Barack?”
The incident unfolded as a jarring moment during what was intended to be a celebratory occasion, highlighting a pattern of gaffes and raising questions about awareness and perception.
