In the grand theatre of world politics, there’s often a clear difference between the main act and the struggling understudy. This was on full display during the recent funeral for the Pope at the Vatican. As global leaders gathered to pay their respects, it became quite evident who was still basking in the spotlight and who was left awkwardly standing in the periphery. Our former president, Donald Trump, and his wife, Melania, were the undeniable center of attention, while current President Joe Biden seemed to be searching for someone to chat up in a crowd that wasn’t all that eager.
Donald Trump’s entrance could have been mistaken for a scene out of a blockbuster movie, what with the polished motorcade and all the pomp. He and Melania, who had a serene presence in keeping with the solemn occasion, were treated like they were still America’s first couple. Even in such a somber setting, Trump managed to gather a following, as if the red carpet had been rolled out for a Hollywood premiere. It’s not every day you see a lineup of world leaders itching for their moment with him.
In stark contrast, poor Joe Biden appeared more like the kid who wasn’t chosen for the dodgeball team. From a vantage point way back in row four, Biden seemed to epitomize obscurity’s finest. While Trump commanded the room, Biden’s lack of company was glaring. There he was, sitting away from the who’s who of global diplomacy, his empty surrounding chairs almost tragic in highlighting his solitude.
One couldn’t help but chuckle a bit at Biden’s trials just trying to navigate the event. With his classic aviators, he needed a steady arm to manage the steps, putting on a clumsier performance compared to his presidential predecessor’s suave demeanor. Spectators might have noticed him struggling, clutching the arm of a priest more than was probably intended for a quick jest on social media.
As the event unfolded, the distinction in how both leaders were received could not have been more evident. Trump, ever the magnetic force, continued to draw attention and command discussions around him. Meanwhile, Biden’s scene resembled a sideshow rather than a spectacle, underscoring yet again the stark difference in how they navigate these global gatherings. With the spotlight firmly on Trump, Biden’s time in such scenarios seems like a never-ending endeavor to find relevance.
