In a recent interview with NBC News anchor Lester Holt, President Joe Biden addressed the controversy surrounding his language leading up to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Trump allies have pointed fingers at Biden and other Democrats, accusing them of fostering hostility towards Trump that may have contributed to the violent act.

During a private call with donors, Biden had stated that it was "time to put Trump in a bull's-eye." While the President acknowledged that using the word was a "mistake," he dismissed the broader criticism, emphasizing that it was simply a figure of speech. Biden redirected the blame towards Trump, asserting that the former president had mainstreamed violent rhetoric.

Clarifying his statement, Biden explained, "I didn't say crosshairs. I meant bull's-eye. I meant focus on him. Focus on what he's doing, focus on his policies, focus on the number of lies he told in the debate." He emphasized that his intention was to draw attention to Trump's actions and behavior. Biden also highlighted stark differences between him and Trump, such as his acceptance of election outcomes and commitment to democratic values.

When asked if he had reflected on his own rhetoric following the assassination attempt, Biden pointed to the necessity of addressing the threats posed by his opponent's language. He rhetorically asked, "How do you talk about the threat to democracy, which is real, when the president says things like he says? Do you just not say something because it may incite somebody?" Biden maintained that he had not engaged in such rhetoric, while his opponent had.

This interview showcased a different tone from President Biden's Oval Office address on Sunday evening. In his address, he called on Americans to "lower the temperature" of political rhetoric and to view political opponents as collaborators rather than enemies.

As the debate surrounding political rhetoric continues, President Biden defends his words against accusations of inciting violence and asserts that it is important to address the divisive language used by his opponents. The broader issue of fostering a more inclusive and collaborative political environment remains at the forefront of national discourse.