Biden Sparks Controversy with Obama Comparison at Syracuse Event

The former president's remark about a university trustee's resemblance to Barack Obama draws criticism online.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A dimly lit stage with a solitary podium in the center, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the controversy surrounding Biden's remarks.Biden's comparison of a university trustee to the former president has sparked renewed scrutiny of the current president's history of controversial remarks.Syracuse Today

During a speech at Syracuse University, former President Joe Biden paused to comment that the university's Board Chairman, Jeffrey Scruggs, resembled former President Barack Obama. The remark, captured on video, has sparked backlash on social media, with some criticizing Biden's comment as inappropriate.

Why it matters

Biden's comparison of the African American trustee to the first Black president raises concerns about racial insensitivity, especially given Biden's history of making controversial remarks about race. The incident also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of public figures' words and actions, particularly around issues of diversity and inclusion.

The details

In the video clip, Biden is seen on stage at Syracuse University for the unveiling of his portrait at the university's College of Law. During his speech, Biden calls Scruggs, the Syracuse Board Chairman and a managing director at Goldman Sachs, up to the podium and tells the audience that Scruggs looks a lot like former President Obama. The audience's reaction, described as 'chittering sounds,' suggests the comment was met with some laughter, but the response on social media has been more critical.

  • Biden made the comment during a speech at Syracuse University on April 14, 2026.

The players

Joe Biden

The 46th President of the United States, who was delivering a speech at his alma mater, Syracuse University.

Jeffrey Scruggs

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Syracuse University and a managing director at Goldman Sachs.

Barack Obama

The 44th President of the United States, whom Biden compared Scruggs to during the speech.

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What they’re saying

“The chittering sounds from the crowd lead us to believe that the comment was laughed off ... but the audience on social media is not as forgiving.”

— TMZ Staff, Reporter

The takeaway

Biden's comparison of the African American trustee to the first Black president raises concerns about racial insensitivity and the ongoing scrutiny of public figures' words and actions, particularly around issues of diversity and inclusion.