Biden says he wouldn’t have run for a second term in 2024 if he knew he had cancer

Joe Biden disclosed in an interview with People magazine that he was unaware of his cancer diagnosis while serving as president and would not have pursued a second term if he had known about the illness. The former Democratic president turned 84 on November 20. Biden's remarks came ahead of the release of his White House memoir.

He stated that if he had been aware that he was feeling unwell due to cancer, he would not have proceeded with the 2024 reelection bid, which concluded following a poor debate performance against Republican Donald Trump. Biden, who was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer shortly after leaving office in 2025, expressed that he believed an 80-year-old man with cancer should not be running for president.

He claimed that the June 2024 debate, less than five months before the election, was not a significant event, despite escalating Democrats' concerns about his age and capabilities. Biden concluded his campaign shortly after the debate and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, who secured the nomination but lost to Trump in the general election.

Despite facing criticism for his health, Biden insisted that he had performed his duties effectively while in office. He emphasized that age alone was not a disqualifier and highlighted his extensive experience and strong relationships with world leaders. His son, Hunter Biden, revealed that the cancer had spread and caused his father pain and debilitation.

Hunter Biden has become more active in public life since Biden left office, engaging in debates with Republicans on social media and promoting his cryptocurrency. Joe Biden defended his son's actions, including his pardon after Hunter Biden's conviction on federal felony gun charges and tax charges, emphasizing that it was necessary given Trump's propensity for vengeance. Joe Biden referred to his son as "one of the brightest men I know" and expressed his pride in him.