Joe Biden was caught on a hot mic Friday evening being directed by a staff member immediately after speaking at the Nebraska Democratic Party’s “Ben Nelson Gala” in Omaha.
Biden delivered remarks at the annual fundraising event, where he criticized President Donald Trump and commented on this week’s election results.
During his speech, Biden claimed that voters had sent a message to the Trump administration.
“You work for us, Mr. President!” Biden shouted from the stage.
“We don’t work for you! You work for us! Not just billionaires and millionaires!”
He continued by declaring, “This is a democracy and the fact of the matter is there are no kings in democracies.”
After finishing his remarks, Biden appeared to begin leaving the stage before being stopped by a staff member who instructed him to remain.
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The exchange was captured on a live microphone and quickly circulated online.
“You’re going to stay on stage,” the staffer was heard saying as she approached him.
“I am? Oh,” Biden responded.
The staff member then directed him toward a different exit, saying, “You’re going out by the side.”
“Oh, alright,” Biden replied before being escorted away.
The moment drew attention on social media, where clips of the exchange were widely shared by reporters and commentators.
The footage appeared to show Biden momentarily confused about where to go after completing his speech, prompting immediate assistance from his handler.
Biden’s appearance at the Omaha event marked one of his few recent public outings since leaving office.
Biden has maintained a relatively limited public schedule, occasionally delivering speeches to Democratic audiences and advocacy groups.
The “Ben Nelson Gala,” named after the former Nebraska senator and governor, is a key annual event for state Democrats.
The dinner, held at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, drew elected officials, local candidates, and party activists.
Biden’s speech focused largely on themes of economic inequality and his continued criticism of President Trump’s policies.
While Biden received applause for portions of his speech, it was the post-event exchange that dominated coverage afterward.
Political observers noted that such moments have become increasingly frequent during Biden’s public appearances, often prompting renewed scrutiny of his interactions with aides and event staff.
The hot mic clip was shared by multiple media outlets following the event.
It shows Biden briefly standing near the podium before the staffer steps in to guide him.
The exchange lasted less than 10 seconds but was picked up clearly by microphones still active from the event’s live broadcast.
The Omaha appearance was part of a weekend lineup of Democratic events in the Midwest, where party leaders are preparing for upcoming state and local races.
