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Dr. Jill Biden has spoken publicly about her husband Joe Biden's health challenges, saying she is uncertain whether he would have been able to complete a second term as president following his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis.
Speaking during an appearance on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," the former first lady was asked whether Joe Biden would have been physically able to carry out presidential duties if he had been re-elected in 2024. "I don't know. I don't know the answer to that," she said.
Joe Biden had initially planned to seek re-election but withdrew from the race in July 2024 after concerns about his health grew. In May 2025, he was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer that had already spread to his bones.
Jill Biden said the illness has had a visible impact on his daily life. "Cancer is really tough," she said. "I would say he's doing okay. He's still making speeches. He's still on Amtrak a couple times a month keeping a schedule. But cancer takes its toll." She added that his energy levels fluctuate, noting, "He gets tired a little more often."
She also questioned whether earlier detection may have been possible while he was still in office. "We did have amazing health care in the White House, but somehow this was missed," she said, explaining that doctors followed recommended guidelines from the American Urological Association, which often discourage PSA testing for men over 70.
Jill Biden described learning more about the progression of his illness after leaving the White House. "If he had just been diagnosed with prostate cancer, that's one thing, because that can be cured, but the fact that it metastasized to his bones, that makes it a whole different story," she said. "I think Joe will live with cancer till the rest of his life."
She also spoke about the emotional strain of being a caregiver, saying, "It's so hard to be a caregiver in that you worry every day, 'Is he eating right? Is he getting enough exercise? Did he have his medications?'"
Beyond his health, Jill Biden addressed the 2024 election, saying she believes her husband could have won if he had remained the Democratic nominee. "I believe he would have beat Donald Trump in that election," she said. However, when asked whether he could have served through another full term, she repeated, "I don't know. I don't know the answer to that."
