Biden Jokes About Gavin Newsom Replacing Him in 2024 at APEC Event Where Both Spoke

At a San Francisco event on Wednesday night President Joe Biden seemed to subtly acknowledge the political chatter about the possibility of his being replaced on the Democratic ticket with a wisecrack about California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who spoke at the same event.

The president and the governor both spoke at the welcome reception for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit (APEC) in San Francisco, hours after Biden’s tete-a-tete with China’s Xi Jinping.

The gathering of world leaders and officials from the group’s 21 member economies and elsewhere is the largest gathering of dignitaries in San Francisco since the 1945 on International Organization that resulted in the creation of the Charter of the United Nations, the body’s foundational document.

The welcome reception on Wednesday at San Francisco’s Exploratorium was opened by Mayor London Breed and Gov. Newsom. Oakland native Vice President Kamala Harris spoke, followed by a welcome video featuring NBA star Steph Curry, NBA coach Steve Kerr, FIFA Women’s World Cup champion Brandi Chastain, and ice skating star and multiple Olympic Gold Medalist Kristi Yamaguchi.

Coach Kerr then took the stage and introduced President Biden, who opened with a joke about jumping to one’s death before his joke acknowledging the political rumors and speculations about Newsom.

“I want to talk about Governor Newsom. Want to thank him. He’s been one hell of a governor, man,” said Biden. “Matter of fact, he could be anything he wants.”

“He could have the job I’m looking for,” said Biden, sharing a wry, knowing look with the crowd as they laughed.

The persistent talk about Newsom as a challenger to or replacement for Biden has continued for several months as the President’s approval numbers have continued to languish and he’s faced difficulty with Black and Latino voters, particularly in key swing states.

Good evening, everyone. I think there’s folks back up behind that barrier. There are. Holy mackerel. Don’t jump. Don’t jump. (Laughter.)

Hello, APEC. Coach, thanks for that introduction and thanks for the — San Francisco’s MVP VIP that we just saw on the screen. And it’s a real honor to welcome all my fellow leaders to the United States.

Two years ago, when the United States offered to host this summit, we knew we’d need a location dynamic and diverse and — as APEC itself. And APEC in San Francisco, here we are.

I want to talk about Governor Newsom. Want to thank him. He’s been one hell of a governor, man. (Applause.) Matter of fact, he could be anything he wants. He could have the job I’m looking for. (Laughter.)

And, Mayor Breed, congratulations. Being a mayor — well, you’re crazy. (Laughter.) I think it’s the hardest job in American politics.

Watch the clip above, via KTVU FOX 2 San Francisco. Transcript via The White House.

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