New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter believes LSU Women’s Basketball team should enjoy their historic visit to the White House solo after winning the 2023 NCAA Basketball championship – opposite of First Lady Jill Biden’s opinion that the Iowa women’s team should join them on the trip. Carter says if everyone gets to partake in such an amazing celebratory gesture it diminishes the value of the trip.
“Here’s the reality, LSU won a historic championship and they deserve to singularly enjoy the winner’s circle. The winner gets the prize.”
John F. Kennedy was the first president to welcome the first NCAA champion to visit the White House in 1976 and U.S. national and major college teams currently visit the White House each year. Carter says he does not believe there was ill intent on the First Lady’s behalf.
“I know and love the first lady. Dr. Biden is an outstanding lady and a very compassionate one. Her intent was good and I suspect it was just her being the gracious lady that she is.”
Biden’s comments sparked backlash across the country and from several LSU team players. LSU star Angel Reese tweeted a link to Jill Biden’s remark and responded by saying “A JOKE”. The Louisiana lawmaker says respectfully – the Lady Tigers deserve to enjoy the victory lap alone.
“These ladies did an outstanding job. They deserve to be recognized. There will be another opportunity for Iowa and every other team to compete for the championship. But as for this year, the prize belongs to the Lady Tigers of LSU.”
White House Press Secretary released a statement saying the First Lady’s comments were intended to applaud the women athletes and the historic game.
Well that’s interesting. Seems to me I don’t see the point of the article tho, other than to make me feel outrage and I don’t think that’s neighborly or helpful. Jill is a wonderful first lady and maybe the team was just fine with the situation. If they have outrage maybe let them speak for themselves.