Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden quoted Mao Zedong, the former communist leader of China, during a virtual fundraiser on Monday night.
“Weve got to get real economic relief into womens hands now,” Biden said, before telling people on the call that he wanted to cite “an old Chinese proverb.”
“Women hold up half the sky,” Biden said.
The quote was first presented by Mao in a bid to reinforce supposed government support for equality between men and women.
Maos rule resulted in the deaths of tens of millions of Chinese due to purges and disastrous policies.
The Biden campaign didnt reply when asked whether Biden was aware of the phrases provenance.
The former vice president and U.S. senator said during the fundraiser that the economic crisis is hitting industries dominated by women.
“Unless you take advantage of half or more of your brain power, you are never going to be in the position where youre going to be able to compete internationally,” he added. “Women. Women. Women.”
Steve Guest, a rapid response director for the Republican National Committee, highlighted Bidens quoting of Mao.
“REMINDER: Joe Biden is in the pocket of China,” he wrote in a social media statement.
“Chairman Mao would approve,” added Tim Murtaugh, the Trump campaigns director of communications.
Anita Dunn, a senior adviser to BRead More From Source
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