Biden’s cancer diagnosis triggers bipartisan, global reactions

Former US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an "aggressive" form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, and is reviewing treatment options, his office said Sunday.

On Friday, the 82-year-old Democrat – whose son Beau Biden died of cancer in 2015 – was diagnosed with the disease after he experienced urinary symptoms and a prostate nodule was found, a statement from his office said.

"While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management. The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians," it continued.

The news has unified political figures across party lines, with many expressing prayers and well-wishes for Biden, who left office in January 2025 after a single term.

President Donald Trump, Biden’s predecessor and successor, set aside their often contentious history to extend heartfelt support.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”

The uncharacteristically warm tone, addressing Biden by his first name, echoed Biden’s own gesture of concern for Trump following an assassination attempt in 2024.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who served under Biden and ran as the Democratic nominee in 2024, also shared a poignant message on X: “Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership.”

Former President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president, highlighted Biden’s personal connection to cancer research, noting his leadership in the Cancer Moonshot initiative following the death of his son, Beau, from brain cancer in 2015.

“Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family,” Obama posted on X. “Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery.”

Support extended beyond party lines, with prominent Republicans joining Democrats in wishing Biden well.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated, “This is certainly sad news, and the Johnson family will be joining the countless others who are praying for the former President in the wake of his diagnosis.”

Even Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), a vocal critic of Biden, shared a personal reflection on X: “I’m sorry to see this news. Cancer is truly awful. My Dad passed away in 2021 with cancer. Prays for Joe Biden and his family.”

Democratic leaders also rallied around Biden. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called him “a great American patriot” and joined “millions across the country and around the world praying for him to have strength and a swift recovery.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) emphasized the Biden family’s history of resilience, stating, “Over the years, the Biden family has confronted unimaginable adversity with grace and steadfast perseverance. We stand with President Biden as he confronts this moment with the same courage and resilience he has shown throughout his life.”

International leaders also expressed solidarity. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wished Biden “swift and successful treatment,” acknowledging the former president’s global impact.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his concern and well-wishes on X, stating, "Deeply concerned to hear about Joe Biden's health. Extend our best wishes to him for a quick and full recovery."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted a heartfelt message on X in both English and French, saying, "Joe, I’m thinking about you and Jill today. You’ve always been a fighter, my friend! I am praying for your full and speedy recovery. Thank you for continuing to inspire us all."

Biden’s diagnosis comes at a time of reflection for Democrats, who are grappling with the fallout of his decision to seek re-election in 2024 despite concerns about his age and health.

His withdrawal from the race in July 2024, following a faltering debate performance, paved the way for Harris’s nomination, though she ultimately lost to Trump.