‘Doesn’t He Look Like Barack?’ Joe Biden Compares Syracuse Trustee With Ex-President, Sparks Row

Last Updated:April 15, 2026, 04:15 IST

While many noted it was likely a joke, others accused the former President of racism.

The 83-year-old leader was honoured at a ceremony held at the university’s law school

Former US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (local time) faced netizens’ ire after a lighthearted moment Biden had with a Syracuse trustee sparked a row.

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

During the ceremony, a brief exchange between Biden and Syracuse trustee Jeffrey Scruggs drew attention. In a joking moment, Biden seemed to take a dig at the criticism by jokingly misidentifying the trustee, SU Board Chairman Jeffrey Scruggs, as ‘Barack,’ seemingly Barack Obama.

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

Netizens React

The comment triggered 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 been a Democrat since the great political shift. I’m sure that racism didn’t leave with the shift,” one user wrote.

“More naked racism from Biden and the Democrats,” said another.

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

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

Biden, who earned his law degree from Syracuse in 1968, reflected on his journey and legacy.

“Whatever my legacy may be, I hope it be said that I never stopped striving for the cause of democracy,” he said, recalling how he first arrived at the campus in the 1960s.

The event was attended by several prominent Democrats, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens, and former First Lady Jill Biden, along with Biden’s family.

Read More