Karoline Leavitt, a 27-year-old rising star in conservative politics, has found herself at the center of controversy after making a quip about Joe Biden that many are calling offensive and out of line.
Once a small-town ice cream scooper in New Hampshire with dreams of a journalism career, Leavitt now occupies a prominent role as a spokesperson for the Trump campaign—an outspoken Gen Z figure unafraid to challenge the media and political establishment.
But it was a comment she made during a recent media appearance, following Biden’s speech on Social Security in Chicago, that sparked outrage.
Asked for her take, Leavitt remarked, “I was surprised to see former President Biden speaking at night—I thought his bedtime was much earlier.”
The offhand comment, clearly aimed at Biden’s age, didn’t sit well with many online. While Leavitt went on to speak about Donald Trump’s commitment to protecting Social Security, the internet quickly zeroed in on what critics described as an ageist and juvenile insult.
“President Trump has always stood firmly in defense of Social Security for hardworking, tax-paying Americans,” she said in the same interview. “He protected it in his first term, and he’ll do it again.”
Still, it was her earlier comment that took center stage on social media. Users flooded platforms like Instagram and Facebook, calling her remarks “immature,” “unprofessional,” and “disrespectful.” One commenter even referenced Leavitt’s own personal life, noting her marriage to a man three decades older: “How old is your husband? Classless move.”
Some of Leavitt’s usual supporters expressed disappointment, suggesting she had crossed a line. “You’re better than that,” one follower wrote. “Don’t stoop to that level.” Another added, “You’ve done a great job so far, but this wasn’t necessary.”
Meanwhile, Biden’s speech focused on defending Social Security against proposed changes that could require Congressional reauthorization every five years—something he strongly opposed. “Who the hell do they think they are?” he said, referencing the plan with clear frustration.
Biden also criticized tax policies introduced during the Trump administration and highlighted ongoing problems within the Social Security Administration, including staffing cuts and controversial data-sharing policies. Disability rights attorney Jason Turkish weighed in, saying public concern over Social Security’s future is growing, though he noted some recent policy reversals as a “hopeful sign.”
Biden’s tone echoed his recent farewell address, in which he reflected on five decades in public service and called on Americans to defend the ideals the country was built on. “I love America. You love it too,” he said.
As the political spotlight sharpens on Social Security once again, Leavitt’s remark—brief though it was—has reignited debate about the tone of political discourse. To some, she’s a bold truth-teller. To others, she crossed a line that speaks to deeper issues of respect and maturity in politics today.
