By David Jackson, USA TODAY
The nation's political divisions have reached into the racetrack.
Some NASCAR fans yesterday booed first lady Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, the wife of Vice President Biden, after they were introduced as grand marshals for the race at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
White House officials are downplaying the incident, noting that there were more cheers than boos; listening to the video, it is hard to gauge the intensity of the critics, as much of the crowd was drowned out by a military flyover and other pre-race noise.
Obama and Biden attended the race to promote their Joining Forces project on behalf of military families.
The two women received a warmer reception at the pre-race meeting with NASCAR drivers; the Associated Press reported that they received a standing ovation as Michelle Obama said the NASCAR has been "amazing in terms of its support, not just today but every day, for military families."
Earlier, she spoke at a NASCAR-Joining Forces barbecue for military families, telling them "we all know that we wouldn't be able to enjoy the freedoms that we have if it weren't for your sacrifice."
The first lady added:
We know you guys are moms and dads juggling it all alone while someone is deployed.
For all the military kids out there, we want the whole country to know we know that you're sacrificing as well. That it's not easy to have your mom and dad away from home for long periods of time, but you guys are strong.
You guys are leaders in your own right. You're taking care of your parents. You're getting good grades. And I know you're eating your vegetables, right?
USA Today