WASHINGTON – U.S. President Joe Biden responded to a question about inflation on Monday by calling a Fox News reporter a slur.
The president was in the East Room of the White House for a meeting of the Competition Council, which focuses on changing regulations and enforcing laws to help consumers cope with high prices. Reporters in the room shouted several questions after Biden’s remarks.
Fox News’ Peter Doocy asked Biden about inflation, which is at a nearly 40-year high and has dented the president’s approval. Doocy’s network has been relentless in its criticism of Biden.
Doocy exclaims, “Do you think inflation is a pre-midterm political responsibility?”
Biden responded with sarcasm, “It’s a big asset – more inflation.” Then he shook his head and added, “What a stupid son of a bitch.”
His comments were recorded on video and by the microphone in front of him. Doocy laughed it off in a later appearance on his network, joking: “Nobody has fact-checked him and said it’s not true.”
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The White House has repeatedly insisted that it is focused on curbing inflation, with Biden reorienting his entire economic agenda around the issue. But the president has also shown a willingness to challenge media outlets he considers overly critical, particularly Fox News and Doocy.
During his press conference last week, Biden sarcastically told Doocy, “You always ask me the best questions.”
“I have a whole stack of papers,” the reporter replied.
“I know you do,” Biden said. “None of them make sense to me. Shoot.”
