Barack and Michelle Obama React to Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis: A Heartfelt Message Amid Political Tension
In an unexpected turn of events, Barack Obama has publicly expressed his sympathy to Joe Biden following the latter’s recent diagnosis of an aggressive form of prostate cancer. This comes after the Obamas were rumored to have played a role in helping oust Biden from the 2024 Democratic presidential race.
The former president, who has faced significant speculation about his political stance on Biden’s candidacy, shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), offering his and Michelle’s support to the Biden family.
“Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family,” Obama wrote. “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.”
Biden, who was diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer earlier this week, has already seen the cancer spread to his bones. The news came shortly after a routine health check revealed a “small nodule” in his prostate, which required further evaluation. The Gleason score—9 (Grade Group 5)—attached to his condition signifies the aggressive nature of the cancer.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Biden’s office indicated that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which opens the door for various potential treatments. Notably, Biden has a history of health battles, having undergone Mohs surgery to remove non-melanoma skin cancer before taking office, and in February 2023, had a malignant tumor removed from his chest.
The Obamas’ sympathy comes at a poignant time, as Biden’s personal struggles with cancer resonate deeply with his political history. As vice president, Biden launched the Cancer Moonshot initiative, which aimed to cut cancer death rates in half by 2047. Obama’s supportive words seem to acknowledge Biden’s ongoing commitment to cancer research.
Meanwhile, Michelle Obama’s response has been less vocal. She reposted Barack’s message without adding any additional comments, fueling further rumors of a strained relationship between the two families. Speculation about a fallout between Michelle Obama and the Bidens has circulated, especially following reports of Michelle’s apparent snub during the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Notably, Michelle chose not to mention Biden during her speech, an omission that many interpreted as a subtle form of protest.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who also shares a complex relationship with Biden, issued a brief but supportive message. Harris, alongside her husband Doug, expressed their solidarity with Biden and his family, acknowledging his resilience. Despite their public gestures of support, some critics have questioned the sincerity of their responses, with some speculating that Harris’ remarks were more of a political performance than genuine concern.
Biden’s health diagnosis has stirred mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Republican leaders, including former President Donald Trump and Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, also extended their sympathies, reflecting a more bipartisan tone toward the president’s battle.
However, behind the scenes, there is mounting tension among Biden’s allies. Many Democratic insiders have begun to publicly question whether Biden should have run for re-election in 2024, with some even blaming him for damaging the chances of his running mate, Harris, during the campaign. It’s believed that Biden’s delayed departure from the race may have cost Harris critical time to prepare for a potential run of her own.
As Biden’s cancer treatment begins, his past political decisions and his relationship with key figures like Obama and Harris continue to shape the narrative surrounding his health and political future. In a week filled with political drama and health concerns, one thing remains certain: Biden’s personal and political challenges are far from over.