Following the news of his cancer diagnosis on Sunday, former President Biden received an outpouring of support from both political allies and opponents, with many calling him a “fighter.”
His health concerns have intensified scrutiny regarding his decision to pursue a second term, particularly amid ongoing questions around his mental clarity. In recent days, some Democrats have suggested he should have stepped aside earlier, expressing frustration about returning to the spotlight amidst a flurry of negative coverage.
Yet, after the announcement of his diagnosis, both Democrats and Republicans, including some of his staunch critics, offered their well wishes, emphasizing respect and hope. One Democratic strategist, Antojuan Sheilet, stated, “If anyone can turn this around, it’s Joe Biden. I doubt any form of cancer will hold him back.”
Meanwhile, Kamala Harris, Biden’s former vice president, expressed confidence on X that he would confront this challenge with the same resilience he’s always shown.
His private office disclosed that Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer on Friday, following increased urinary symptoms. The diagnosis was noted as having a Gleason score of 9, which indicates a high level of aggression and metastasis to the bone.
“This is a serious form of the disease, but it is manageable given its hormone sensitivity,” the statement from his office explained, adding that the president and his family are exploring treatment options with his medical team.
Biden has had personal encounters with cancer even before this latest diagnosis, having lost his son Beau to brain cancer and previously spearheading the “Biden Cancer Moonshot” initiative while vice president to combat the disease.
Rep. Greg Murphy, a urologist with over three decades of experience, shared his hopes for Biden’s recovery. “We’ve seen significant advances in treatment during my career. I’m keeping him and his family in my prayers,” Murphy remarked on X.
In the wake of this news, some Democrats have criticized Biden and his advisors for not addressing his cognitive decline during his presidency. Democratic strategist Joel Payne commented, “The past couple of years have undoubtedly impacted Biden’s political heritage, yet there exists a backdrop of personal affection for his remarkable journey through public service and personal loss.” He added, “Everyone certainly wishes for the best regarding the president’s health.” Payne also mentioned that Biden’s cancer news will influence how Democrats navigate the final stretch of his presidency.
On another note, Democratic strategist Jamal Simmons emphasized the need to allow Biden the space to focus on his recovery. “He has done so much for this country; it’s crucial we let him prioritize his health,” Simmons said.
Eddie Verele, another Democratic strategist, echoed sentiments about Biden’s empathy towards others facing challenges. “His life experiences have given him a deep understanding of others’ struggles. Now would be an ideal time for everyone to respond with compassion and kindness towards him and his family.”
Biden has made some recent public appearances after concluding his term earlier this year. He participated in his first interview with the BBC this month and then appeared on “The View,” where he rejected claims about his mental acuity. His wife also defended him, stating that those who made comments about his cognitive state were not truly privy to his experiences in the White House.
Rep. James Clyburn, who was pivotal in Biden’s 2020 victory, stood by him in light of negative reports just days before the cancer announcement. “I interact with Biden frequently, and I’ve yet to see anything that raised any concerns,” Clyburn told CNN’s Jake Tapper during a recent interview.
