President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden recognized recipients of the National Medal of Arts and Humanities at a reception at the White House on Monday.
Biden called out the power of women in a speech praising the honorees, including actress Queen Latifah and the late singer Selena Quintanilla.
“As Jill Biden's husband, I know the power of the women in this room,” Biden joked during his remarks.
He then took on a more serious tone and appeared to be paying homage to Vice President Harris.
“I know that with the power of the women in this room, we can accomplish ample work with the next generation of pioneers, proving that women can do everything men can do, and even more. Prove that you can do that, and that includes becoming President of the United States.” Mr. Biden said: to standing applause.
Biden also appealed to voters, citing book bans as an example of threats to the arts and humanities.
“This is a critical moment for the arts and humanities in America,” the president said.
Biden's comments came just weeks after Election Day and as the race between Harris and former President Trump neared its final stages.
According to an average of national polls by Decision Desk HQ/The Hill, Ms. Harris has an approval rating of 49%, compared to Mr. Trump's 47.8%, a 1.2 percentage point difference.
