Overview

• President Joe Biden referred to former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe as the 'real governor' of Virginia during a campaign rally, despite McAuliffe losing the gubernatorial election to Republican Glenn Youngkin in 2021.
• Biden's comment was quickly criticized by Republicans, with many labeling him as an 'election denier'.
• Governor Glenn Youngkin responded to Biden's comment on social media, stating, 'Mr. President, I'm right here.'
• The White House defended Biden's comment, stating that he was 'making a joke about McAuliffe’s previous term as governor.'
• Biden's comment has sparked controversy, particularly as he has made Trump's refusal to accept the 2020 election results a key part of his campaign.