Biden waited long to address the mysterious flying objects. Now we know why | Margaret Sullivan

After weeks of speculation about a Chinese spy balloon and other weird things in the skies over North America, President Joe Biden on Thursday did what he had to do.

Americans have been understandably puzzled and unnerved by what was happening, first as the spy balloon was shot down and then as the second, third and fourth objects appeared and were taken down over Alaska, Canada and Michigan.

The president had to say something before another day went by.

It sounded plausible but speculative. And that lack of certainty, no doubt, is part of why he hesitated to speak earlier.

Hearing from the president directly was moderately worthwhile but the address could have been much more valuable if Biden had thoughtfully responded to a few questions from the gathered press.

If transparency was the major aim, not doing that was a missed opportunity.