Camilla Jessen
Here’s what both Trump and Kamala Harris had to say.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
Biden’s office confirmed on May 18 that the 82-year-old had been diagnosed with stage 9 prostate cancer, a high-grade form of the disease that has spread to his bones.
The official statement explained:
Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.
Despite the severity of the diagnosis, the statement added that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which can allow for effective treatment options.
According to Newsner, Biden and his family are said to be discussing next steps with his doctors.
Trump Responds
Donald Trump, who faced off against Biden in a highly contentious 2020 election and was gearing up for a rematch before Biden exited the 2024 race, took to Truth Social to share his first public reaction to the news.
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.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who stepped in as the Democratic nominee after Biden withdrew from the 2024 race, also issued a heartfelt message:
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.
Harris added, “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.”
Biden’s Health History and Personal Loss
This isn’t Biden’s first health battle.
In 2023, while still serving as president, he underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth. Earlier in life, he was also treated for skin cancer.
Biden has long championed cancer research, especially after losing his son Beau to brain cancer in 2015 — a personal tragedy that has fueled his mission to improve cancer care and prevention.
Despite past health concerns and public speculation — including denied rumors of Alzheimer’s during the 2024 campaign — Biden has remained a visible advocate in the fight against cancer, even as he quietly stepped away from the presidential race.