President Biden’s notes at press conference branded ‘cheat sheets’ by critics

President Joe Biden is facing criticism after appearing to hold what some are calling a “cheat sheet” of reporter questions during a joint press conference at the White House.

Close-up shots captured by a photographer show Biden with a white card in hand, detailing the name and picture of Los Angeles Times journalist Courtney Subramanian alongside a written question. “Question #1” was handwritten at the top of the sheet, indicating the president should call on her first at the conclusion of his remarks, reported Fox News.

“How are YOU squaring YOUR domestic priorities — like reshoring semiconductors manufacturing — with alliance-based foreign policy,” read part of the question in Biden’s hand.

The reporter, who was in fact called upon first during the press conference, did not ask the identical question listed on Biden’s sheet.

“Your top economic priority has been to build up U.S. domestic manufacturing in competition with China, but your rules against expanding chip manufacturing in China is hurting South Korean companies that rely heavily on Beijing. Are you damaging a key ally in the competition with China to help your domestic politics ahead of the election,” Subramanian asked.

Still, some critics called the notes concerning, claiming it as evidence of the media carefully collaborating with the White House as Biden faces questions of his mental acuity amid a run for reelection.

Others on social media defended Biden, indicating it’s not problematic to have a general idea of questions in order to give detailed answers as the commander-in-chief.

The use of presidential notes in whole is not unusual. Snopes, a fact-checking website, reports that presidents use notes, and international events are planned down to every tiny detail.

In 2018, Former President Trump was photographed several times with talking points and expected questions during his presidency. Perhaps most famously was a note that appeared to remind Trump to empathize with students who were visiting the White House shortly after a mass shooting at their school in Parkland, Florida.

“I hear you,” one note said. “What would you most want me to know about your experience?” said another, the New York Times reported.

In February, the White House released Joe Biden’s health report describing the 80-year-old president as “healthy,” “vigorous” and “fit to successfully execute the duties” of his office. Testing reportedly did not include a cognitive test.