Documents recently surfaced showing that during his presidency, Joe Biden used “palm cards” that featured photos and brief bios of prominent Democrats—like Hillary Clinton and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer—to help him recall names and roles at public appearances.
The cards covered topics such as Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients, with images of Clinton, Denzel Washington, and others, and included shorthand prompts about their positions and affiliations. Some bore the stamp “PRESIDENT HAS SEEN” to indicate they were reviewed in advance.
One of the cards listed upcoming questions from journalists with suggested wording, allowing quick reference during press events. White House officials defended the practice as standard support material, while critics say it raises questions about reliance on cue cards in high-visibility settings.