President Biden's continued refusal to acknowledge his seventh grandchild has drawn widespread criticism, with CNN's Dana Bash calling the situation "sad and disturbing." The president's stance contrasts sharply with his public image as a devoted family man.

Hunter Biden recently settled a paternity suit with an Arkansas woman, confirming he is the father of a four-year-old girl. Despite frequently highlighting his close relationship with his six other grandchildren, President Biden and the White House have publicly stated he only has six grandchildren. This discrepancy has sparked controversy, with critics like New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd questioning the president's empathy.

Bash highlighted the political ramifications of the situation, noting that Republicans are capitalizing on the narrative. She emphasized that the issue resonates because it contradicts Biden's carefully cultivated image as a family-oriented individual. Bash played a clip of Biden expressing his affection for his six grandchildren, further underscoring the contrast with his refusal to acknowledge his seventh grandchild.

Bash acknowledged the complexities of family dynamics, especially given the public scrutiny surrounding the Bidens. However, she stressed the significance of the situation given Biden's position as president and his public persona. She also dismissed arguments about the involvement of "MAGA and Republican lawyers" in the paternity suit, emphasizing the well-being of the child.

Bash revealed that even some Democrats who admire Biden find his actions in this matter damaging to his image. Dowd's column further amplified the criticism, arguing that Biden's rejection of his granddaughter contradicts his decades-long message of empathy and undermines his leadership.