Joe Biden isn’t staying quiet — even in the middle of a health crisis.
On Memorial Day, the former president made headlines for both a health update and a moment with a young female reporter that some described as “creepy” or inappropriate, citing how he leaned in close before responding with a pointed remark.
“You can see that I was mentally incompetent and I can’t walk and I can beat the hell out of both of them,” — a jab at critics questioning his mental and physical fitness.
Book Bombshells and Backlash
The moment came just days after CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson released their explosive political biography, Original Sin, a behind-the-scenes exposé alleging that Biden’s inner circle hid signs of his declining health throughout his presidency, shielding the public, and even some staff, from the full truth.
Biden, 81, dismissed the revelations with sarcasm and defiance:
“Why didn’t they run against me then? I could have beaten them.”
“I don’t have any regrets.”
Cancer Update: “We’re Going to Beat This”
This was also Biden’s first time speaking publicly since confirming his aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis earlier this month. With a hoarse voice, he told reporters the disease hasn’t spread and that he’s currently undergoing treatment.
“The expectation is we’re going to be able to beat this,” he said. “My bones are strong. I feel good.”
Biden added that he’s taking medication and remains optimistic, with family support playing a central role in his outlook.
Remembering Beau — and the Secrets Behind His Illness
Earlier that day, Biden and his wife Jill attended mass for the 10-year anniversary of their late son Beau’s passing from glioblastoma in 2015. The couple was later seen visiting Beau’s grave at St. Joseph on the Brandywine Church, a yearly tradition. Joining them this year: Beau’s son, Little Hunter.
Original Sin also delves into Beau’s cancer battle, alleging the Bidens kept his diagnosis secret during his time as Delaware attorney general. According to the book, Beau was checked into hospitals under the name “George Lincoln,” while Biden, then vice president, ordered aides to mislead the press about his whereabouts during treatment visits.
Jill Biden Now in the Spotlight
Amid the book’s release, former First Lady Jill Biden is facing new scrutiny over her alleged role in downplaying her husband’s health issues. House Oversight Chair James Comer has formally requested interviews with four Biden aides and former White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke bluntly Thursday:
“Jill Biden was certainly complicit in that cover-up… She’s still misleading the American people. Frankly, it’s insulting — and she needs to answer for it.”
One Last Word From Joe
Amid the ongoing scrutiny, Biden remained composed and assertive, responding with a mix of reflection and pointed remarks.
Whether driven by confidence or careful messaging, one thing is certain:
Joe Biden continues to speak out — and isn’t stepping back from the spotlight.
