Since taking office in January 2021, Joe Biden has been at the center of a swirling storm of conspiracy theories. Some theories are grounded in real events that have been twisted into more elaborate narratives, while others seem to spring entirely from the realm of speculation.
From claims of deepfakes to assertions about secret alliances with foreign powers, these theories reveal much about the current political climate and the public's thirst for the dramatic and unknown.
Let’s dive deep into the most persistent and intriguing conspiracy theories surrounding President Biden and explore what they might mean.
1. The “Deepfake” President: Is Biden Really Who We See?
One of the most pervasive theories circulating on the internet is the idea that Joe Biden is not actually who we see on television or in public appearances. This theory suggests that the real Biden is either incapacitated, dead, or otherwise unavailable, and that the figure we see is a sophisticated fabrication—a deepfake, a body double, or a digitally created avatar.
Details and Origins:
The theory first gained traction on fringe forums and social media platforms where users began to scrutinize every public appearance of Biden, looking for inconsistencies. They pointed to minor changes in his facial features, perceived differences in his voice, and even his gait as evidence that the Biden we see might not be the "real" Biden.
They argue that modern technology, especially advances in AI and deepfake capabilities, could make such a substitution feasible.
Why It Resonates:
This theory taps into a deep-seated fear of deception and the idea that we might not be able to trust our own eyes. The rapid advancement of technology, coupled with widespread mistrust in media, makes the notion of a deepfake president compelling for some. It plays on the anxiety that digital manipulations are not only possible but being used against the public to manipulate political reality.
2. The Shadow Government: Who’s Really in Charge?
Another theory gaining significant attention is that Joe Biden is merely a puppet for a hidden "shadow government." According to this theory, a cabal of powerful elites, including billionaires, corporate leaders, and former government officials, truly controls the Biden administration's decisions from behind the scenes.
Details and Origins:
Proponents of this theory often point to Biden’s occasional verbal missteps or perceived lapses in mental acuity as evidence that he is not mentally fit to govern independently. They argue that his decisions are not his own but rather those of this hidden elite, who use him as a figurehead while they pull the strings in secret.
Connections to Broader Theories:
This idea of a shadow government aligns with long-standing theories about the "Deep State," a supposed network of non-elected officials who purportedly control national and international policies regardless of who is officially in power. For believers, every slip-up or moment of hesitation from Biden is not just a human error but proof of a hidden agenda.
Why It Resonates:
The theory capitalizes on general public fears about transparency, control, and autonomy. It suggests that ordinary citizens are at the mercy of unseen forces that dictate their lives. For those feeling disenfranchised or powerless, believing in a shadow government offers a narrative that explains their sense of helplessness.
3. The China Connection: Is Biden Compromised by a Foreign Power?
A particularly charged conspiracy theory suggests that Joe Biden is compromised by the Chinese government, influenced by his son Hunter Biden’s business dealings.
Details and Origins:
This theory grew in popularity during the 2020 presidential campaign when Hunter Biden's business dealings in Ukraine and China came under scrutiny.
Critics argued that these dealings indicated a broader pattern of unethical behavior that could compromise Biden’s ability to lead the United States independently of foreign influence.
The Alleged Evidence:
Supporters of this theory often cite Hunter Biden’s laptop—allegedly containing emails and documents that hint at inappropriate business practices—as a smoking gun.
They claim that these emails reveal a network of secret deals and potential corruption that could undermine national security.
Why It Resonates:
This theory taps into fears of foreign interference and distrust of globalism. It suggests a narrative where American sovereignty is compromised by foreign powers, a fear that has only grown in the wake of recent international tensions and cybersecurity threats.