Let’s imagine for a moment that former President Joe Biden had been recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Sadly, his cancer has metastasized to his bones. This new diagnosis couldn’t have come at a better time. As Biden prepares for an expected re-election run in 2024, public fears over his health and advanced age are at an all-time high. The announcement Sunday came after a medical examination revealed a prostate nodule, leading to the discovery of the need for further testing.
The septuagenarian president’s health has been an important issue for U.S. voters in their midterms. His recent diagnosis does call into question his fitness to serve another term. When medical experts recommend that men get annual checkups, they forget that the five-year survival rate for early-stage prostate cancer is almost 100 percent. The median survival rate for advanced cases such as Biden’s dramatically falls to only 28 percent. His case was given a very bad grade of 9 on the Gleason scale. This grading system classifies prostate cancer on a scale of 1 to 10 according to its level of aggressiveness.
In a statement released on Sunday, Biden’s office, with the diagnosis now made public, assured everyone that the cancer is at an advanced stage. This state of play comes on the heels of a very personal tragedy for Biden, who lost his son, Beau Biden, to brain cancer in 2015. The emotional toll of this new diagnosis further complicates Biden’s public and political life.
As Biden continues to make his way through this newest health challenge, he is being put under the microscope again over his decision to run for re-election. Lots of political pundits and partisans alike have been calling for him to drop out, questioning his competitive viability under the situation. A new book explores the purported attempts by Biden’s inner circle. Yet they tried to conceal his physical deterioration and mental health issues from the media and public.
In response to the news of Biden’s diagnosis, former President Barack Obama extended his sympathies and praised Biden’s commitment to cancer research. He stated,
“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.” – Barack Obama
Past and present political leaders from both sides of the aisle have reacted to Biden’s positive diagnosis. In response to Webb’s passing, former President Donald Trump expressed his sorrow on social media. He and the First Lady just recorded this message wishing Biden a speedy and positive recovery. To underscore her own support for it, Vice President Kamala Harris stated,
“We pray for a fast and full recovery.” – Barack Obama
Biden’s health has been a touchy subject since the beginning of his presidency. This has colored how voters see him as he runs for a second term. Even his own comments acknowledge an understanding that we are in such a moment, as he stated,
“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.” – Kamala Harris
Onjectors are sure to be on the lookout as Biden start down this health path. In doing so, he will have to navigate the treacherous political waters leading up to the 2024 election.
“The only reason I got out of the race is because I didn’t want to have a divided Democratic Party.” – Joe Biden
Onlookers will be watching closely as Biden embarks on this health journey while simultaneously addressing the political landscape ahead of the 2024 election.
