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President Joe Biden’s aides regard first lady Jill Biden as one of the most impactful figures in the role, according to insights from the new book, “Original Sin.” Written by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios political correspondent Alex Thompson, this work delves into Biden’s political dynamics and alleged cognitive decline.
Within this context, Jill Biden’s chief aide, Anthony Bernal, emerges as a pivotal figure in the White House landscape. Tapper and Thompson explore how his influence shaped interactions within Biden’s inner circle, often eliciting controversy.
One anonymous long-serving aide starkly articulated their discontent, stating, “He would not be welcome at my funeral.” This sentiment illustrates the degree of animosity Bernal reportedly faces from some colleagues.
The environment in the White House revolves around loyalty, and Bernal is described as wielding that loyalty as both a shield and a weapon. According to the authors, his approach often involved assessing who could be trusted, effectively creating a divide between loyalists and non-supporters.
The Loyalty Enforcer
Tapper and Thompson offer a compelling narrative of Bernal, highlighting his belief in loyalty as a paramount virtue. His probing inquiries, such as asking aides if they were “Biden people,” led to him being dubbed the “loyalty police” by some of his colleagues. This moniker underscores his rigorous approach to maintaining allegiance within the team.
Insight Into the Power Dynamics
During the pandemic, the dynamics shifted as Bernal and Annie Tomasini became integral to Joe and Jill Biden’s inner circle. Their close association influenced the power distribution among Biden’s advisors, often referred to as his “Politiburo.” The authors describe Bernal and Tomasini as embodying a dynamic reminiscent of an “older-brother-and-little-sister” relationship, which deviated from conventional staff roles.
Notably, Tomasini held the unusual title of deputy campaign manager, a role not typically assigned to a spouse’s staff. Their influence became particularly evident when strategic decisions, like managing Biden’s teleprompter for interviews, came under their purview, impacting the flow of his public engagements.
The Implications of Loyalty
As noted by Tapper and Thompson, the rise of Bernal and Tomasini symbolizes a shift towards loyalty directed toward the Biden family rather than the conventional expectations of serving the presidency or the nation. According to the authors, this dynamic raises concerns about the motivations and ethics governing the White House decision-making process.
Though difficult to find defenders of Bernal within the administration, the authors portray him as someone who used his positional power to marginalize dissenters. His reputation for being abrasive is underscored by comments from several former aides, with some branding him as “the worst person they had ever met.”
Access and Influence
Bernal and Tomasini also expanded their influence over Residence staff, gaining unprecedented access within the White House. Their badges, labeled “Res,” granted them entry to areas typically restricted for aides, which marked a departure from standard protocol.
As the Biden campaign prepared for reelection, concerns arose regarding Biden’s age and performance in battleground states. However, Bernal and other senior aides dismissed these worries, with Bernal reportedly stating, “You don’t run for four years – you run for eight.” This comment reflects an assurance and commitment to the long-term strategy being pursued by the Biden campaign.
Bolstering the First Lady’s Profile
Bernal’s dedication to enhancing Jill Biden’s visibility and appeal is highlighted in the book. Planning for her potential international engagements in 2025 commenced early, indicating a proactive approach to solidifying her role in the public eye. Notably, Bernal often commented candidly about the first lady’s appearance, reflecting a complex mix of loyalty and critique.
Working closely, Jill Biden and Bernal maintained vigilance over internal team dynamics, fostering an environment that kept tabs on allegiances. This collaboration positioned Jill as a leading advocate for her husband’s reelection bid while also keeping narrative control over perceptions of his cognitive health.
The Quest for Loyalty Amid Controversy
Even following a rocky debate performance in July 2024, both Jill Biden and Bernal pressed on, showcasing their resolve to continue supporting the administration. Tapper and Thompson depict their commitment as a testament to their strategic alignment amid a challenging political landscape.
Fox News Digital has previously highlighted issues related to Biden’s cognition and the surrounding inner circle’s alleged attempts to conceal these concerns. This ongoing narrative raises questions about transparency and accountability in governance.
In response to the allegations and revelations presented in the book, a former White House staffer defended Bernal. The individual asserted that many claims within “Original Sin” are exaggerated or omit critical perspectives. They emphasized Bernal’s qualities as a strong mentor, strategic thinker, and leader, painting him in a more favorable light in contrast to the book’s portrayal.
Final Thoughts on Loyalty and Power
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the unfolding story of Jill Biden’s aide reflects a broader narrative about loyalty, influence, and the complexities of power within the White House. The revelations presented in “Original Sin” shine a light on the intricacies of loyalty in political circles, leaving readers to ponder the true dynamics at play in this critical era of governance.
