A significant divide within President Joe Biden's administration has come to light, as some officials feel the president is being too shielded from public exposure.

The New York Times has highlighted a "simmering discontent" among administration officials regarding the tight control over President Biden's public engagements, with former Jill Biden staffer Michael LaRosa speaking out, as Fox News reports.

LaRosa recently aired his grievances, noting the excessively managed nature of Biden's appearances.

He pointed out that such stringent control prevents the president from showcasing what he says are his inherent strengths such as humor, empathy, and compassion which are crucial for public connections.

Biden's Experienced Political Acumen Acknowledged

The Times acknowledges what it said was President Biden's considerable prowess in legislation, likening him to a "legislative master" akin to Lyndon B. Johnson.

This aspect of Biden's capabilities highlights his extensive political experience and achievements despite the concerns about his public appearances.

Despite his political accomplishments, there is a deliberate avoidance of discussions about Biden's age within his circle.

The sensitivity of the issue is such that it influences the behavior and attitudes of his closest aides, shaping how they interact and defend him against public scrutiny and media questions.

President Biden's engagement with the public and the media is notably restricted compared to his predecessors, with fewer press conferences and formal interviews. Pre-meetings and detailed preparations extend the time it takes for him to get ready for public interactions, adding to the meticulous image portrayed by his team.

Clyburn, Carney Reflect on Biden's Changed Demeanor

Observations from those around him, including his "shuffling walk, low voice, and occasional confusion," have not gone unnoticed in reports, possibly feeding into the public's perception and scrutiny of his physical and mental state.

High-profile figures like Rep. James Clyburn and former Whtie House press secretary Jay Carney have commented on the perceptible change in Biden's public manner compared to his senatorial days.

Clyburn mentioned how Biden has altered his style, becoming more subdued and scripted. Similarly, Carney highlighted Biden's increased caution and insistence on sticking to a strict script during public addresses.

LaRosa further emphasizes the impact of the controlled environment on Biden's ability to connect.

"Relatability is his superpower, but you can only relate to someone when their humanity is exposed. That means flaws, mistakes, and everything else that comes with imperfection," he stated, expressing concern that the strategy employed may be counterintuitive in demonstrating Biden’s relatability and approachability.

The Strategy Behind the Shield

The approach of enclosing Biden within a tightly controlled communication bubble might be interpreted as a protective strategy by his campaigners, yet it raises questions about its efficacy in portraying a relatable and competent leader.

Biden’s propensity to be "defensive and testy" when his age is mentioned suggests a vulnerability that his team is keen to shield from public discourse.

These restrictions and the defensive attitude about age from President Biden himself indicate a nuanced strategy that may be intended to safeguard his image but could also limit his direct engagement with the American people.

This approach paints a complex portrait of a seasoned leader whose capabilities are shielded by the caution of his advisors, balancing between maintaining a respected statesman’s image and addressing the inevitable transparency required by public office.