In Original Sin, a book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson, First Lady Jill Biden is portrayed as a dominant force in the White House, with her aide Anthony Bernal wielding major influence.
Bernal, described as controlling and loyal to the Bidens above all, reportedly enforced strict allegiance tests among staff, earning the nickname “loyalty police.”
He and Annie Tomasini were key figures in Biden’s campaign and presidency, shaping strategy and maintaining tight control. The book also alleges efforts to shield concerns about President Biden’s cognitive health.
Bernal’s deep involvement even extended to planning Jill Biden’s 2025 travel and influencing her public image and wardrobe.