President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden made a special visit to Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles on Wednesday to meet their granddaughter, Naomi Biden, and her new baby boy, William Brannon Neal IV. The visit took place as wildfires continued to ravage areas just miles away.
Naomi’s Cesarean birth and family gathering
Naomi Biden, 30, had scheduled her cesarean section for the big day. Hunter Biden, Naomi’s father, along with his wife, Melissa Cohen, and their young son Beau, were also seen arriving at the hospital.
President Biden announces great-grandfather status
After spending 40 minutes with the family, President Biden made his way to the Santa Monica Fire Department Station. While speaking to a group of first responders and reporters, he shared the joyful news. He had just become a great-grandfather!
“There’s only one piece of good news,” Biden said. “I’m a great-grandfather, as of today.” He also expressed concern for his son Hunter’s home. It was threatened by the fires, but was relieved to hear it might still be standing.
Biden’s visit affected by California wildfires
Originally in California for official duties, Biden had planned to announce the protection of California lands from oil and gas drilling. However, the ongoing wildfire crisis forced him to cancel his schedule and stay in his Los Angeles hotel. His hospital visit was the only public event, with no other scheduled appearances.
Biden’s anticipation for Naomi’s delivery
The Bidens were well aware of Naomi’s delivery date. As President Biden had mentioned it in an interview earlier this week. “I’m about to be a great-grandfather, Jesus God,” he said. He had also confirmed that Naomi’s cesarean section was scheduled for January 8th.
Naomi and Peter’s journey to parenthood
Naomi’s pregnancy had been the subject of much speculation in the media. The couple, who had recently moved to California, were married in a lavish White House ceremony in November 2022. Naomi’s pregnancy was confirmed publicly with an Instagram post on election night. She showed off her baby bump with an “I voted” sticker.
Naomi’s pregnancy had been a topic of conversation at a state dinner in May, where her growing baby bump had not gone unnoticed. Naomi had been wearing loose-fitting clothing, further fueling public speculation. At one point, Peter Neal appeared to gesture toward her stomach during a photo op, confirming the rumors.
Naomi’s career and life before California
Before her move to California, Naomi worked as an attorney in Washington, D.C., and lived briefly at the White House with her husband, Peter. They later relocated to Georgetown before settling on the West Coast. Naomi’s high-profile marriage and the couple’s move to California have kept the media interested in their every move.
While the Bidens celebrate the birth of their first great-grandchild, they remain focused on the ongoing crisis in California. Despite the wildfires threatening the region, the Bidens continue to show their support for the people of Southern California. The birth of William Brannon Neal IV is a bright moment for the family amid the ongoing challenges.
