Former President Joe Biden delivered a poignant message to Americans during his first public appearance since completing radiation treatment for an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Speaking to a gathering in Boston on Sunday evening, Biden described the current political climate as “dark days” and called for hope and resilience in the face of challenges, particularly those posed by former President Donald Trump.
Biden, who is 82 years old, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Edward M. Kennedy Institute. He emphasized the enduring strength of the American idea and its capacity to withstand authoritarian threats. “Since its founding, America served as a beacon for the most powerful idea ever in government in the history of the world,” he stated. “The idea is stronger than any army. We’re more powerful than any dictator.”
In his remarks, Biden highlighted the importance of limited presidential power, a functional Congress, and an independent judiciary. He made these comments against the backdrop of the federal government experiencing its second-longest shutdown in history, a situation that Trump has used to advocate for increased control over government operations.
“Friends, I can’t sugarcoat any of this. These are dark days,” Biden remarked. He expressed confidence that the nation would “find our true compass again” and emerge stronger and more just, as long as citizens maintain their faith in the democratic process.
Biden also pointed to various instances of resistance against the current administration. He commended federal employees who resigned in protest and noted the courage of universities and comedians who faced backlash from Trump. “The late night hosts continue to shine a light on free speech knowing their careers are on the line,” he observed.
The former president acknowledged the efforts of some Republican officials who have publicly criticized or voted against the Trump administration, reinforcing the notion that America’s political landscape has always been a “constant push and pull, an existential struggle between peril and possibility.”
Biden’s comments come after a challenging period following his single term in office, which ended in January 2021. He withdrew from the 2024 presidential race amid concerns about his age, health, and performance in debates, leading to Kamala Harris launching her campaign. Ultimately, she faced Trump in the November 2024 election.
In May 2023, Biden’s post-presidential office announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer that had spread to his bones. Prostate cancers are categorized using the Gleason score, which ranges from 6 to 10. A score of 9, as Biden has, indicates a more aggressive form of cancer.
As he concluded his address, Biden encouraged the audience, saying, “Get back up.” His call to action reflects a commitment to resilience and the belief that democracy can prevail even during trying times.
