Former U.S. President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he has been diagnosed with an aggressive type of prostate cancer, prompting a flood of quick recovery wishes. In a statement, Biden’s office said doctors had identified a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) and that the cancer had already advanced to the bones. As bad as the disease is, it seems to be hormone-sensitive, which, as explained in the statement, “permits effective control.” The Biden family now considers possible treatment options.
A Rare Display of Bipartisanship
In an unusual display of bipartisan support, American politicians across party lines—Democrats and Republicans alike—quickly took to social media to voice concern and offer solidarity with the 82-year-old former president. Amid rising political tensions, this moment served as a rare instance of unity and compassion.
US President Donald Trump, who has frequently ridiculed Biden’s mental capacity, put aside political differences. In a post on his Truth Social website, he stated, “Melania and I are saddened to learn of Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We send our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family and wish Joe a quick and successful recovery.”
Former President Barack Obama, for whom Biden was Vice President, also offered support. On X, he posted, “Michelle and I are sending our thoughts to the whole Biden family. No one has done more to identify breakthroughs in cancer treatment in every form than Joe, and I have no doubt he will battle this challenge with his characteristic determination and dignity. We wish him a speedy and complete recovery.”
Biden’s Cancer Advocacy Legacy
Biden’s diagnosis carries personal significance. In 2015, after losing his son, Beau Biden, to brain cancer, he went on to establish the Cancer Moonshot program—an ambitious attempt to cut cancer fatality rates in half and enhance patient outcomes. Since then, that effort has become a notable benchmark of his public service record and a reflection of his ongoing passion for combating cancer in all forms.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who assumed the Democratic presidential nomination after Biden dropped out of the 2024 campaign, chimed in as well. “Joe is a fighter — and I know he will meet this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hoping for a full and speedy recovery,” she posted to X.. “We are holding him, Dr. Biden, and their whole family close in our hearts and prayers during this moment.”
A Nation’s Prayers
Other high-profile political leaders showed solidarity as well. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton commented, “I’m thinking of the Bidens as they face cancer, a disease they’ve done so much to try to keep other families from suffering. Wishing you a speedy, full recovery.”
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also said, “President Joe Biden is a great American patriot. Paul and I join the millions around the nation and across the globe praying for him to have strength and a quick recovery in the fight against cancer. Sending love to him and his family.”
