President Biden and his family have chosen to spend their Thanksgiving holiday at the luxurious Nantucket home of billionaire David Rubenstein. The first family arrived on Tuesday night, with Air Force One landing at Nantucket Memorial Airport. Biden’s security detail accompanied them to Rubenstein’s 14-acre compound on Rabbit Run Road, as reported by the Nantucket Current.
The Nantucket home, valued at over $34 million according to the Nantucket Assessor’s office, offers the Bidens a grand setting for their Thanksgiving celebrations. Complete with guest houses, a tennis court, a hot tub, and a pool, the property has been a generous gift from Rubenstein to the Bidens since at least 2021. Rubenstein, a friend of the family and co-founder of The Carlyle Group, holds a net worth estimated at over $3.5 billion.
Despite the lavishness of their surroundings, Biden’s Thanksgiving schedule remains relatively low-key. Apart from a planned call with U.S. military service members, no public events are scheduled. However, on Friday, Biden is expected to attend the annual tree lighting ceremony on Main Street, a tradition he has upheld in recent years.
The president’s visit has required significant preparations, with Biden’s security entourage spending the past five days ensuring the island is ready. Massachusetts State Police Troopers have arrived by ferry, and hotels are filled with Secret Service agents, government staff, and off-island media.
It is worth noting that the president’s Thanksgiving vacation follows his administration’s involvement in brokering a deal between Israel and Hamas for the release of hostages. The White House, along with Qatari negotiators, facilitated the agreement, which included Israel temporarily halting airstrikes and a ground invasion of Gaza for humanitarian reasons. In return, Hamas agreed to release dozens of hostages, while Israel agreed to release Palestinian prisoners on a 3-to-1 ratio.
President Biden expressed his satisfaction with the hostage release, acknowledging the challenging circumstances endured by those held captive. He stated, “I am extraordinarily gratified that some of these brave souls, who have endured weeks of captivity and an unspeakable ordeal, will be reunited with their families once this deal is fully implemented.”
As President Biden and his family enjoy their Thanksgiving holiday in Nantucket, their choice of destination and their connection to a billionaire friend have garnered attention. The president’s visit serves as a reminder of the close ties between politicians and influential figures, sparking discussions about wealth and privilege in American society.
