Fox News White House Correspondent Peter Doocy recently shared a behind-the-scenes account of an infamous moment early in President Joe Biden’s administration—one that reveals much about the president’s temperament and follow-through. Speaking on *Fox & Friends*, Doocy revisited the time Biden called him a “stupid son of a b*tch” after a question on inflation.
The incident took place in January 2022 when Doocy pressed Biden on the mounting inflation crisis, a question that clearly struck a nerve. “Will you take questions on inflation then? Do you think inflation is a political liability ahead of the midterms?” Doocy asked. Biden, seemingly unaware his mic was still on, snapped, “No, it’s a great asset. More inflation. What a stupid son of a b*tch.”
Reflecting on the episode, Doocy revealed that Biden later attempted to smooth things over with a phone call, telling him it “wasn’t personal” and even suggesting they meet for lunch—an invitation that, unsurprisingly, never materialized.
Speaking with his father, Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy, Peter quipped, “He said he’d have me in for lunch when it was safe—this was at the tail end of COVID. Well, I think his lunch card is probably filled. It never happened.” He added with a laugh, “So it was never safe to have lunch with me.”
Doocy’s recounting of the incident underscores a pattern often observed in Biden’s presidency: grand gestures and promises that fail to materialize. Whether it’s securing the border, revitalizing the economy, or something as simple as a lunch invitation, Biden’s follow-through often leaves much to be desired.
Doocy joked with his colleagues about the broken promise, noting, “If Donald Trump invited you to lunch, you would have lunch.” The lighthearted jab highlighted a contrast in leadership styles. Trump, known for his willingness to engage directly with reporters—even those critical of him—demonstrated a level of accessibility and candor that Biden often seems to lack.
In a previous interview, Doocy acknowledged that Biden’s call to apologize was appreciated but unnecessary. “He cleared the air. And I appreciated it. We had a nice call. He said it’s nothing personal, pal. And I told him that I appreciated him reaching out,” Doocy shared. However, he also noted, “I don’t need anybody to apologize to me. He can call me whatever he wants as long as it gets him talking.”
This moment between Doocy and Biden is emblematic of a presidency that has struggled to navigate both criticism and accountability. While Biden’s outburst may have been dismissed by some as a slip of the tongue, it reflects broader issues of frustration and a lack of composure under pressure—particularly when faced with tough questions.
As Doocy transitions from his role at the White House, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of a press corps willing to ask the hard questions, no matter how inconvenient they may be for those in power. And while Biden’s promised lunch may never have happened, the exchange will remain a defining moment in the relationship between the press and the 46th president.
