During the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, President Trump evaded the request to condemn white supremacists.

The debate moderator included a segment during the discussion that addressed politically-charged groups that were linked to each of the respective candidates’ political parties. The moderator cited that Trump had criticized Biden for not condemning Antifa, and asked Trump if he would be willing to “condemn white supremacists and militia groups, and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence” in a number of cities having protests.

Trump responded that he would be willing to do it, to which the moderator and Biden said: “Then do it”. 

After a brief silence from Trump, he asked who he should be addressing. The moderator reiterated he should address white supremacists and militia groups. 

Trump said: “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by…” and then proceeded to criticize leftist movements. 

The Proud Boys are an alt-right group of people who are against political correctness and recently led Oregon to declare a state of emergency in anticipation of their upcoming rally. Although they are a relevant group, Trump did not address all white supremacists in his statement. 

Trump’s request to “stand by” essentially calls for white supremacists to get ready and remain loyal. 

When Trump brought the question to Biden to address Antifa, Biden responded: “Antifa is an idea, not an organization”.