Biden Clarifies 'Bullseye' Comment on Trump Rivalry

President Biden admitted to NBC News that it was a mistake to tell supporters to put Donald Trump in the 'bullseye.' He clarified that he intended for the focus to be on Trump's actions. Republicans have blamed Biden for inciting violence, but Biden emphasized his opposition to political violence.

President Joe Biden acknowledged to NBC News on Monday that it was a mistake to urge supporters to put Republican rival Donald Trump in the 'bullseye.' However, the Democrat stressed that unlike Trump, he does not use inflammatory language.

On July 8, during a meeting with major donors, Biden emphasized the need to shift the campaign focus from himself to former President Trump, the Republican nominee in the Nov. 5 election. 'I have one job and that's to beat Donald Trump ... We're done talking about the debate. It's time to put Trump in the bullseye,' he said.

Republicans have criticized Biden for creating a climate that they claim led to an assassination attempt on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. Biden, who has consistently spoken out against political violence, corrected his choice of words in an NBC interview, saying, 'It was a mistake to use the word. I meant focus on it, focus on what he's doing.'

Biden continues to face pressure from within his party to step aside as the Democratic nominee following a poor debate performance. He has attempted to redirect attention to Trump's actions, highlighting his falsehoods and involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

'I'm not the guy that said I want to be a dictator on day one. I'm not the guy that refused to accept the outcome of the election,' Biden said, pointing out Trump's suggestive rhetoric about a potential 'bloodbath' if he loses the election. Biden also criticized Trump for mocking the attack on former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband.

Aiming to reinforce his suitability for a second term despite concerns over his age, Biden reminded that millions had chosen him as the Democratic Party's nominee. 'I listen to them,' he said.

(With inputs from agencies.)