In a recent statement, a White House spokesperson for President Joe Biden defended his decision to issue a proclamation recognizing March 31 as Transgender Day of Visibility, despite criticism from Republicans who argued that the date coinciding with Easter was insensitive. Andrew Bates, the spokesperson, accused Republicans of attempting to divide the country with their "cruel, hateful, and dishonest rhetoric."

Bates emphasized that President Biden, as a Christian who celebrates Easter with his family, is committed to bringing people together and upholding the dignity and freedoms of all Americans. He assured the public that the president would never exploit his faith for political gain or profit.

The backlash against President Biden's proclamation originated from his Republican presidential challenger, Donald Trump's campaign, along with religious conservatives who support him. They accused Biden, a Roman Catholic, of disregarding the significance of Easter. Trump's campaign's press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, called on the White House to apologize to Catholics and Christians who believed Easter should be the sole focus on March 31.

Republican allies of former President Trump joined the criticism, with US House Speaker Mike Johnson taking to social media to express his disapproval. Johnson claimed that the Biden White House had betrayed the central tenet of Easter and denounced the president's declaration as "outrageous and abhorrent."

President Biden's religious devotion is well-known, with his Catholic background being a vital component of his morality and identity. He has frequently attended Catholic mass and had a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican in 2021. Despite his religious beliefs, Biden's support of gay marriage and abortion rights has put him at odds with many conservative Christians.

The controversy surrounding the proclamation comes at a complex time for Trump, as he faces multiple legal challenges. These include a criminal trial set for April 15, in which he is accused of covering up hush-money payments related to an extramarital sexual encounter with an adult film actor. Additionally, Trump is battling allegations of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, retaining classified materials without authorization, and facing civil penalties for fraudulent business practices and a rape allegation that a judge has deemed substantial.

As the controversy unfolds, the clash between President Biden and his critics highlights the ongoing division in American politics concerning issues of faith, identity, and LGBTQ+ rights.