The two leaders of Canada, Biden, and Trudeau, met in Canada.
On Friday, President Biden joked with Canada’s Conservative leader that the United States “unfortunately” considers holding different political beliefs to be an expression of devotion.
While being ushered by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau into the House of Commons, Biden made the comment to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and other dignitaries, senators, and party leaders.
As they shook hands, Poilievre introduced himself to Biden as the “leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition,” referring to the British government.
“Devoted Opposition?” A question from Biden.
According to Poilievre, “opposition is an act of loyalty in our system.”
The president’s response was simply, “We do too, unfortunately,” and he moved on to the next guest.
While some have taken the comment as a jest, others have said it speaks ill of Biden and have condemned him online.
On Thursday, the first of two days, Biden and Trudeau met to talk about a variety of issues. An agreement between the United States and Canada to repatriate illegal border crossers is expected to be unveiled on Friday.