Details of President Biden's Cancelled Ship Visit
Newly released records indicate President Joe Biden canceled a planned visit to a National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) at a Philadelphia shipyard in July 2023 because of concerns about boarding the ship.
Source of the Information
The documents were obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request by Protect the Public’s Trust. They show a U.S. Maritime Administration official told colleagues the vessel tour was called off after the White House learned how many steps were required to get on board, noting the presence of grated steps.
Purpose of the Original Visit
The ship visit had been scheduled as part of an appearance to highlight offshore wind and clean energy job initiatives. Organizers ultimately removed the NSMV stop from the itinerary.
Context and Timing
The decision came roughly a month after the president stumbled over a sandbag and fell during the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation ceremony in Colorado Springs on June 1, 2023. The timing has drawn attention amid questions about the rationale for skipping the shipboard event.
Additional Details
...