Biden's big break: 532 days off, nearly 40% of his presidency

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: The New York Post
8 Sep 2024 15:14
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Recent data reveal that US President Joe Biden has spent 532 days on vacation in under four years, representing about 40 percent of his time in office.

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President Joe Biden speaks in the Cross Hall of the White House on Monday, July 1, 2024, in Washington (AP)

A recent analysis by the Republican National Committee reveals that US President Joe Biden has spent a substantial portion of his presidency on vacation. Data show that, at 81 years old, Biden has taken 532 days off in less than four years, making up about 40 percent of his time in office.

This means that President Biden has accumulated more vacation days in a shorter span than an average American worker would over nearly five decades. Given that the typical American worker receives 11 vacation days annually, Biden's time off equates to approximately 48 years' worth of vacation days for the average worker.

Critics have questioned the appropriateness of the President's extensive vacation time, particularly during periods of global instability and domestic issues.

Mark Paoletta, former general counsel of the White House budget office under President Donald Trump, commented, “The image of Biden fast asleep and lying flat on his back in his chair at the beach while America and the world is on fire will define the Biden presidency,” according to The New York Post.

Critics have also highlighted pressing issues such as inflation, border security, and international conflicts, arguing that the President should be dedicating more attention to tackling these problems.

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Presidential aides defend President Biden, noting that, like his predecessors, he continues to work remotely and stays available even while on vacation. Nonetheless, some have raised concerns about the frequency and length of his breaks, with Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn) humorously suggesting that he might need even more time off.

When comparing vacation time among presidents, Biden's record stands out. He has taken more time off than his predecessors, with 40% of his presidency spent away from the office. This is higher than former President Donald Trump's 26% personal trip ratio. In comparison, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama each took vacations for about 11% of their two-term presidencies, and Jimmy Carter had only 79 days of breaks during his single term.