President Biden spent the Easter weekend at Camp David with his family, departing New York City without making any public remarks about the recent murder of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller. The President had previously attended a campaign event in Manhattan where he raised $26 million before leaving the city. Diller was killed in Far Rockaway, just six miles from JFK Airport where the Bidens departed from that day. Hunter Biden, Ashley Biden, and grandson Beau Biden joined the President and First Lady on the trip.
Despite the attention surrounding Diller’s murder, President Biden did not mention the incident publicly, nor did he issue any written statements about it. He had reportedly offered condolences to New York City Mayor Eric Adams but did not make direct contact with the officer’s family. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the President grieves for Diller’s family and the broader NYPD, honoring their sacrifice in the line of duty. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, who is seeking a rematch against Biden in November, attended Diller’s wake and viewing in Massapequa, New York.
During a campaign event in Manhattan, President Biden expressed concern about the potential return of Trump to the White House, highlighting foreign leaders’ worries about the possibility. He emphasized, “I’m not so special, but I’m not Trump,” in a reference to his opponent. Trump met with Diller’s family, including his widow Stephanie and their 1-year-old son, as a show of support and empathy. New York City Mayor Eric Adams attended Diller’s wake, while Governor Kathy Hochul briefly visited the viewing, making a public appearance that attracted attention.
The suspect in Diller’s murder, Guy Rivera, was charged with first-degree murder and had a criminal history with 21 prior arrests. He was on parole until last year after serving a five-year prison term for a drug conviction. The tragic death of Officer Jonathan Diller highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and brought attention to the need for community support and response to such incidents. President Biden’s decision not to publicly address Diller’s murder raised questions and concerns about his priorities and handling of the situation, especially in the context of his busy campaign schedule and personal engagements. Ultimately, the tragedy served as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by police officers and their families, as well as the importance of unity and solidarity in facing such challenging circumstances.
