“I just wanted to come today to thank you all for protecting me and my family,” said Biden, who emerged from her motorcade in a long black coat over a cream-colored dress and the same flower mask as her carried.
“I know you left your home states,” said the First Lady, noting that son Beau Biden had served in the National Guard. “The National Guard will always have a special place in the heart of all Bidens.”
Biden was holding a basket of goodies tied with red, white, and blue ribbons that she handed out as a token of gratitude.
The first lady made her unscheduled stop at the Capitol after a scheduled visit to Whitman-Walker Health in downtown Washington, just a handful of blocks north of the White House.
Whitman-Walker is a non-profit, state-qualified health center that provides community-based health and wellness services that specializes in LGBTQ and HIV care, according to an east wing statement. The clinic also provides cancer support and navigation services to patients and caregivers. Biden was given a tour of the facility and listened as the administrators outline what worked for them and what didn’t work for them during the pandemic to reach patients.
“Everyone needs more mental health work,” said Biden, noting the overwhelming challenges faced by healthcare providers and patients, outlined by a Whitman-Walker representative.
“We’re in your corner,” she added.
“The first thing we have to do is address this pandemic,” she said, clapping her hands for emphasis. Soon after, she went to the Capitol to greet the troops and hand out the homemade biscuits.
“You’re all the best, thank you very much,” said Biden, who posed for a group photo. The troops greeted their backs and gave a loud “Hoo-ah!” in recognition.
“General introvert. Pop culture specialist. Hardcore student. Creator. Bacon enthusiast.”
