Joe Biden Fires Back at Claims of Mental Decline: “I Could Still Beat the Hell Out of Them”
Joe Biden isn’t running for office again — but that doesn’t mean he’s staying silent. In his first public appearance since revealing his prostate cancer diagnosis, the 82-year-old former President took a bold jab at those questioning his mental and physical fitness.
While speaking in Delaware on Friday, Biden addressed media questions about controversial allegations made in the newly released book “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again” by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.
Biden Mocks Accusations, Issues Fiery Response
Responding with sarcasm, Biden quipped:
“Clearly I’m mentally unfit and can’t even walk.”
Then, standing tall, he added with a grin:
“I could still beat the hell out of both of them.”
While he didn’t mention the authors by name, the timing makes it clear he was likely referring to Tapper and Thompson, whose book has stirred intense conversation in Washington since its release just 10 days ago.
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Biden Questions the Critics’ Courage
Biden didn’t stop there. He challenged those within the Democratic Party who’ve claimed he shouldn’t have sought a second term:
“If they were so opposed to me running again, why didn’t they stand up and run themselves?”
Book’s Allegations Stir Debate
Original Sin alleges a cover-up of Biden’s physical and cognitive decline during his presidency, and criticizes the Democratic Party for allowing him to run again instead of putting forth a new candidate.
Tapper, a CNN anchor, and Thompson, a political correspondent, cite unnamed sources and behind-the-scenes observations to paint a picture of a president struggling with the demands of office — claims Biden clearly disputes.
Context: Biden’s Health and Political Future
At 82, Biden is the oldest person to have held the U.S. presidency and is now battling prostate cancer. Despite stepping away from a 2024 campaign, his health and legacy remain top topics of discussion. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, Biden’s likely general election opponent had he run again, turns 79 on June 14.
Final Thoughts: No Gloves Pulled
Though he may be out of the political ring, Biden made it clear he’s not backing down from criticism. His humor and defiance suggest he’s still ready to swing back — at least with words.
Would You Watch Biden vs Tapper in a Charity Match?
For now, any real “grudge match” between Biden and Tapper remains hypothetical — but if CNN needs a ratings boost, fans are already joking about a presidential showdown in the ring.
