Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited a political firestorm by suggesting that current President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis may have been deliberately concealed from the public before last year’s election. Trump’s claims, made during a rally in Pennsylvania on Monday, have drawn strong reactions from both supporters and critics, adding a new layer of controversy to the ongoing scrutiny of Biden’s health.
“Why are we only hearing about this now?” Trump asked the crowd. “They knew. Everybody knew. But they didn’t want the voters to know. It was a cover-up, plain and simple.”
Biden’s diagnosis of early-stage prostate cancer was confirmed by his office on May 18, 2025. According to White House officials, the cancer was detected during a routine screening in April, and treatment began shortly thereafter. Medical experts have described the condition as manageable and noted that Biden is responding well to therapy.
Still, Trump’s remarks have added fuel to political speculation and conspiracy theories, with some of his allies amplifying the idea that the White House intentionally delayed disclosure for political gain. Conservative media outlets and commentators have echoed the accusation, citing what they call “a pattern of secrecy” surrounding Biden’s health during his presidency.
The White House has firmly denied any attempt to hide the diagnosis. In a statement, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, “The President’s medical team acted promptly and transparently. There was no delay, no deception. These claims are completely false and politically motivated.”
Medical transparency has long been a contentious issue in American politics, with questions about the health of aging leaders often weaponized during election cycles. At 82, Biden is the oldest sitting president in U.S. history, and his health has been a frequent topic of debate—particularly among Republican opponents.
Democratic leaders have defended Biden, accusing Trump of exploiting a serious medical issue for political gain. “This kind of reckless rhetoric undermines public trust and shows a total lack of decency,” said Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), a close Biden ally. “President Biden has been upfront about his health, and he continues to lead with strength and clarity.”
Meanwhile, medical professionals have warned against politicizing cancer diagnoses. Dr. Sanjay Patel, an oncologist at Georgetown University, said, “It’s dangerous to use medical conditions as a political weapon. Cancer requires focus, support, and facts—not baseless speculation.”
Despite the backlash, Trump appears undeterred. In a post on Truth Social, he doubled down on his claims, writing, “They kept it hidden during the campaign. What else are they hiding?”
Biden himself has made no direct comment about Trump’s remarks but thanked Americans for their support during treatment. “Like so many families touched by cancer, we face this with faith and strength. I’m grateful for the good wishes—and I’m not going anywhere,” he said at a recent public appearance.
As the 2026 political season intensifies, the controversy over Biden’s diagnosis and Trump’s reaction is likely to remain a flashpoint in an already polarized environment. For now, the debate underscores the fragile intersection of personal health, public transparency, and political ambition in the highest office of the land.
Source: Al Jazeera
