Joe Biden

President Donald Trump expressed surprise that the public had not been informed earlier about Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. Biden revealed on May 18 that he has prostate cancer which has metastasized to his bones, and he is currently reviewing treatment options with his family. The announcement has sparked renewed concerns about Biden’s health and transparency during his presidency. Vice President JD Vance criticized Biden for withholding critical health information from the public. At 82, Biden’s age and medical condition are drawing intense scrutiny, especially in light of a new book that details concerns among Democratic insiders and aides about his mental acuity during his 2024 re-election campaign. Biden’s office stated the diagnosis was made just days earlier, on Friday. Medical experts informed that such cancers are usually detected before reaching an advanced stage, raising additional questions about the timeliness of both the diagnosis and the public disclosure.

US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump both claimed credit for the Gaza ceasefire deal, which aims to end the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas. Biden dismissed questions about credit, stating the deal was developed by his team and will largely be implemented by the incoming administration. Trump, however, attributed the deal's success to his election victory. The ceasefire agreement, brokered with Qatar’s help, includes a six-week ceasefire phase, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The deal follows months of negotiations and aims to alleviate ongoing violence and casualties.

At the Democratic National Committee’s holiday reception on December 15, U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reflected on the achievements of their administration and expressed gratitude for their supporters. President Biden proudly stated that the country was in better shape than when they took office, asserting with confidence that the progress made was significant. Vice President Harris emphasized that true leadership is measured not by defeating others, but by uplifting those around you. Both leaders acknowledged the unwavering unity and dedication of their supporters, which they credited as key to their success. Biden and Harris were joined by their spouses, First Lady Jill Biden and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, in this moment of celebration. The event served as an opportunity to recognize the achievements of their administration and to thank the Democratic Party for its vital role in supporting their efforts and fostering unity within the party.

In an extended interview, President-elect Donald Trump discussed various policy areas, signaling shifts in tone and approach since his campaign. On the economy, he acknowledged that his planned tariffs might raise prices for American consumers, a departure from his earlier promises to reduce inflation and ease financial burdens. He also softened his stance on the Federal Reserve, stating he had no intention of asking Chairman Jerome Powell to step down. On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to sealing the U.S. southern border and deporting millions of undocumented individuals, including potential deportation of Dreamers, though he emphasized not wanting to separate families. He also suggested that birthright citizenship could be ended. Regarding foreign policy, Trump indicated that Ukraine should expect reduced U.S. aid under his administration. He reiterated his goal to end the Ukraine-Russia war but gave no specifics and was evasive about his conversations with Russian President Putin.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect on November 27, 2024, following an agreement brokered by the U.S. and France. U.S. President Joe Biden announced the deal, emphasizing that it aims for a permanent cessation of hostilities. The ceasefire includes a 60-day drawdown period during which Israel will gradually withdraw its forces, and Lebanon’s army will deploy in the south to take control of the region, ensuring Hezbollah does not rebuild its infrastructure along the border. Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib confirmed that 5,000 Lebanese troops will be stationed in southern Lebanon during this time. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the ceasefire, stressing that Israel would respond decisively to any violations by Hezbollah, including strikes if the group attempts to rearm or rebuild its fortifications. The agreement also allows Israel to focus on the threat posed by Iran, replenish its depleted arms supplies, and give its military a rest. Despite the ceasefire in Lebanon, there was no indication it would immediately lead to a truce with Hamas in Gaza. The conflict, which has killed thousands since its eruption following a Hamas attack last year, continues to fuel tensions in the region. The Israel-Lebanon ceasefire is seen as a step towards stabilizing the border and isolating Hezbollah.

In a continuation of the Thanksgiving tradition, President Joe Biden pardoned two turkeys, Peach and Blossom, during his final holiday season in office. Named after the peach blossom, Delaware’s state flower, the turkeys symbolize resilience. This practice, which has become a symbolic gesture, traces its roots to the 1870s when Rhode Island poultry merchant Horace Vose began sending turkeys to the White House. Over time, turkey presentations evolved into a festive tradition, with public displays and decorations, like the 1925 turkey gifted by a Vermont Girl Scout. Although President Truman was the first to receive a turkey from the Poultry and Egg National Board in 1947, he did not establish the pardoning tradition. The formal pardoning practice began in 1989 under President George H. W. Bush, marking a shift to the humorous and symbolic ceremony we see today, with turkeys sent to children's farms rather than being eaten.

On November 17, 2024, President Joe Biden made history as the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon rainforest. His trip to Manaus, Brazil, highlighted the importance of preserving the rainforest to combat climate change, as its trees absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide. Biden met with local leaders, including Indigenous groups, working to protect the region and toured areas affected by severe drought. During his visit, Biden reiterated the U.S. commitment to clean energy and environmental policies, emphasizing that balancing the environment and economy is achievable. He also warned that President-elect Donald Trump’s climate policies could undo his administration’s progress. Biden announced a $50 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, bringing the U.S. commitment to $100 million. He also signed a proclamation designating November 17 as International Conservation Day, underscoring his dedication to global environmental efforts.

World leaders gathered in Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit on November 17, 2024, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, and U.S. President Joe Biden among the key attendees. The summit's focus will be on issues like poverty, hunger, and global institutional reforms. Brazil has ramped up security, deploying troops, armored vehicles, and naval ships following a failed bomb attack on the Supreme Court in Brasília. In preparation for the summit, authorities have obscured views of the city's favelas with brightly painted walls, especially along the route that heads of state will take to the venue. The military has also been stationed near Rio’s Mare favela. Meanwhile, the G20’s influence on global finance, particularly climate funding, remains significant, as it controls the purse strings for multilateral development banks. Brazil also launched the G20 Favelas initiative to raise awareness of the challenges faced by favela residents.

As his 50 years in elected office wind down, President Joe Biden is actively showcasing his administration’s achievements, supporting Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democrats as Election Day approaches. Biden hosted a Diwali celebration at the White House, highlighting the festival’s symbolism of light over darkness. Praising Harris as “smart, tough, and experienced,” he acknowledged South Asians’ contributions to American life. Reflecting on a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment in 2016, Biden emphasized unity, freedom, and democracy, calling America a place where “everything is possible.” His words aimed to resonate with the community and promote a shared vision.

During a rally in Pittsburgh on October 25, President Joe Biden urged voters to trust their instincts in the upcoming November 5 presidential election, calling it "the most important election of our lifetime." He expressed support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, praising her strength and referring to former President Donald Trump as a "loser." Recent polls show Harris leading Trump narrowly, 46% to 43%. Biden also criticised billionaire Elon Musk, labelling him an "illegal worker" due to his student visa status and highlighting Musk's substantial financial support for Trump’s campaign, which included around $44 million in October alone.

On October 22, President Joe Biden labeled Donald Trump a threat to democracy during a campaign event in New Hampshire, urging Democrats to "lock him up" politically in order to win the upcoming election. Biden argued that Trump seeks to undermine the safeguards of the U.S. Constitution, asserting that democracy itself is at risk if Trump defeats Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. This rhetoric echoes Trump’s 2016 rallies, where supporters chanted "lock her up" regarding Hillary Clinton, a chant Trump did not discourage. Currently, some of Harris's supporters chant "lock him up" in reference to Trump, who has been convicted of 34 felony counts related to hush money payments and faces additional charges regarding the 2020 election. While Harris acknowledges these chants, she emphasizes that the Justice Department will handle legal issues, focusing instead on winning the election at the ballot box.

In an October 16 interview with Fox News, Kamala Harris promised a distinct break from Joe Biden's presidency, emphasising her own leadership style and fresh ideas. She clashed with host Bret Baier on issues like immigration, repeatedly asking to finish her responses. Harris stressed that her presidency would not continue Biden's, drawing on her unique experiences. She criticised Donald Trump for using divisive rhetoric, particularly regarding military threats against internal enemies. When pressed on the border crisis, Harris blamed Republicans for blocking a bipartisan solution, accusing Trump of politicising immigration instead of resolving it. The interview aimed to appeal to Republican voters.

A memorial service was held in Washington for Ethel Kennedy, human rights advocate and widow of Robert F. Kennedy, who died at age 96. US President Joe Biden, former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and other prominent figures honoured her life and legacy. Biden praised her for supporting him during his personal tragedies, calling her a hero in her own right. The service included musical tributes from Kenny Chesney, Sting, and Stevie Wonder. Ethel Kennedy raised 11 children and continued her husband's work on social justice, poverty, and the environment. Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.

Rescue workers in western North Carolina are searching for survivors after Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation. The powerful Category 4 storm killed over 100 people across several southeastern states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia. Thousands remain without power, and hundreds are missing, though the number may decrease as communication is restored. President Biden is set to visit North Carolina and may call a special congressional session for additional aid. Roads are closed, and many have applied for FEMA assistance, while emergency teams work to reach isolated areas cut off by washed-out roads and downed power lines.

The United States returned 297 smuggled artifacts to India during PM Modi's visit, strengthening cultural ties and diplomacy. Learn how this exchange marks a milestone in India-US relations and the fight against illicit trafficking.

In a historic Oval Office address, President Biden announced he will not seek re-election, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Emphasizing the need for new leadership, Biden highlighted Harris's experience and capability. He urged Americans to choose unity and progress in the upcoming election, vowing to continue his efforts on key issues like lowering costs, defending civil rights, and maintaining global alliances. Watch the full address for Biden's powerful message and Harris's emerging role.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received standing ovations inside the US Congress, but faced protests outside as Capitol police deployed pepper spray on demonstrators. Netanyahu spoke about US-Israel unity against Iran, thanked President Biden for his support post-October 7 Hamas attack, and addressed ongoing efforts to secure hostages held in Gaza. Meanwhile, dozens of US lawmakers boycotted the speech, and protests mirrored the pressures he faces at home. Stay tuned for insights on this significant event.

At a North Carolina rally, Donald Trump labeled Kamala Harris the 'ultra-liberal driving force' behind Biden's immigration policies. Despite being tasked with Central American migration issues, Harris was never made 'border czar.' Trump claimed Harris is the most liberal politician ever elected and warned she would 'destroy our country' if elected president. This event follows Biden's recent exit from the presidential race, energizing the campaign landscape.

United States President Joe Biden had a series of verbal slip-ups on July 11 on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington, an unfortunate development for the 81-year-old as he tries to move past concerns that he is too old to run for re-election. There is close scrutiny on Biden this time around especially since his dismal debate performance against Republican candidate Donald Trump last month.

Hawaii’s governor, who has longstanding ties with President Joe Biden and attended a recent meeting with him and other Democratic governors, indicated that Biden could decide shortly whether to remain a candidate for re-election.