Latest update:15 April 2026 at 04:15 IST

While many suggested it was likely a joke, others accused the former president of racism.

The 83-year-old leader was honored at a ceremony held at the university’s Faculty of Law

Former US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (local time) faced the wrath of netizens after a playful moment Biden spent with a Syracuse trustee sparked a dispute.

Biden returned to his alma mater, Syracuse University, on Tuesday for the unveiling of his official portrait, in an event celebrating his long public life. The 83-year-old leader was honored at a ceremony at the university’s law school, where his portrait will now be on permanent display.

During the ceremony, a brief conversation between Biden and Syracuse Trustee Jeffrey Scruggs caught attention. In one moment of banter, Biden appeared to take aim at the criticism by misidentifying the regent, SU Board Chairman Jeffrey Scruggs, as “Barack,” apparently Barack Obama.

A video of the exchange between Biden and the trustee was shared on social media and quickly went viral. While many suggested it was likely a joke, others accused the former president of racism.

Internet user interaction

The comment sparked a wave of reactions online. Some users dismissed it as a harmless joke, but critics — including conservative voices — accused Biden of making an inappropriate or racially insensitive remark.

“Biden has been a Democrat since the big political shift. I’m sure racism didn’t leave with this shift,” one user wrote.

Another said: “More obvious racism from Biden and the Democrats.”

“Biden pulls another racist,” a third user commented.

Syracuse University announced the unveiling of Joe Biden’s photo in February.

Biden, who earned his law degree from Syracuse University in 1968, spoke about his journey and legacy.

“Whatever legacy I leave, I hope it will be said that I never stopped fighting for the cause of democracy,” he said, recalling how he first arrived on campus in the 1960s.

Several prominent Democrats attended the event, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens, and former First Lady Jill Biden, along with the Biden family.

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