'Joe is a Fighter’: Leaders rally behind Biden after cancer diagnosis

Messages of support and encouragement continue to pour in following the announcement that former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.

In a statement released Sunday, Biden’s office said he has been diagnosed with "prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone."

The statement added that while the cancer is aggressive, it appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management.

The news drew immediate reaction from across the political divide, President Donald Trump writing, "Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden's recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery."

Former Vice President Kamala Harris shared her message on social media.

"We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery."

Former US Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as Vice President, said, "Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family. Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery."

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton posted, "I’m thinking of the Bidens as they take on cancer, a disease they’ve done so much to try to spare other families from. Wishing you a speedy, full recovery."

Former President Bill Clinton added, "My friend Joe Biden’s always been a fighter. Hillary and I are rooting for him and are keeping him, Jill, and the entire family in our thoughts."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio joined in, writing, "Jeanette and I are united in prayer for the Biden Family amid this difficult time."

 "This is certainly sad news, and the Johnson family will be joining the countless others who are praying for the former President in the wake of his diagnosis," said House Speaker Mike Johnson.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise shared, "Praying for former President Joe Biden as he battles prostate cancer."

Nancy Pelosi posted, "President Joe Biden is a great American patriot. Paul and I join the millions across the country and around the world praying for him to have strength and a swift recovery in the battle against cancer. Sending love to him and his family."

"The House Democratic Caucus and our nation are praying for President Joe Biden and his family as he battles this challenging medical diagnosis. Over the years, the Biden family has confronted unimaginable adversity with grace and steadfast perseverance. We stand with President Biden as he confronts this moment with the same courage and resilience he has shown throughout his life," House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote that he was "praying for President Biden and the entire Biden family."

Delaware Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester said she was “deeply saddened to hear of President Biden's diagnosis and am wishing him a fast and full recovery, she added.

Senator Chris Coons, also from Delaware, said, "Over his decades of public service, Joe comforted so many of us in tough times and contributed so much to fighting cancer. Now we need to support and encourage him. Joe Biden has always been a fighter, and I know that won't change as he confronts this disease head-on. Joe's faith and family have brought him through tough challenges before and will again. Our prayers are with him and his family as he begins treatment."

Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania added that Biden was a fighter and would “prevail.”

Among Republican voices, Senator Thom Tillis and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also weighed in.

Greene posted, "I'm sorry to see this news. Cancer is truly awful. My Dad passed away in 2021 with cancer. Prays for Joe Biden and his family."

California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote, "A man of dignity, strength, and compassion like his deserves to live a long and beautiful life. Sending strength, healing and prayers his way."

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker posted, "President Biden knows that when you get knocked down, you get back up and fight. We’re with you in this fight, Joe."

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said, "President Biden has served our nation with distinction. During this difficult time, Bill and I are praying for his health and a speedy recovery."

 “I hope all Americans join me in sending him and his family prayers as they navigate the road ahead with this medical team. We are all hoping for a speedy recovery," New York Mayor Eric Adams added.

New York Attorney General Letitia James posted, "Heartbreaking news this afternoon. I’m praying for President Biden and his entire family, and I hope he makes a full recovery."