U.S. President Joe Biden has made his first public appearance since being diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, delivering an emotional message of resilience and unity and a sharp warning about Donald Trump’s leadership.
Speaking at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute in Boston, where he received the Lifetime Achievement Award, the 82-year-old Biden described this period in America as “dark days”, but urged Americans to hold onto hope and “find our true compass again.”
“Since its founding, America has stood as a beacon for the most powerful idea in human history that power belongs to the people,” Biden told the audience. “That idea is stronger than any army, more powerful than any dictator.”
Biden emphasized the importance of maintaining a government built on checks and balances, stressing the need for a limited presidency, a functioning Congress, and an independent judiciary a clear rebuke to what he sees as Trump’s push for greater executive control amid the ongoing government shutdown, now the second-longest in U.S. history.
“Friends, I can’t sugarcoat any of this these are dark days,” Biden said. “But America has always come through our toughest times stronger, wiser, and more just as long as we keep the faith.”
He praised federal employees, comedians, and universities who have stood up against political pressure, calling them “examples of courage and conscience.” He also commended Republicans who have publicly criticized Trump’s administration, saying:
“America is not a fairy tale. For 250 years, it’s been a constant struggle between peril and possibility.”
Biden ended his remarks on a hopeful note, urging Americans to “get back up” and continue defending democracy.
The former president left office in January after serving one term. He withdrew from the 2024 election race following widespread concern over his age and health after a tough debate against Trump. His vice president, Kamala Harris, launched her campaign soon after Biden’s exit but ultimately lost to Trump in the 2024 election.
In May, Biden’s office confirmed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer that had spread to his bones, with a Gleason score of 9 indicating an aggressive form of the disease. Despite this, Biden’s appearance in Boston showed a man determined to remain active and vocal about the future of American democracy.
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