Donald Trump offered sympathy for Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis, but soon questioned whether the former president hid his illness for too long. Here’s what he said—and how experts responded.
Trump Responds to Biden’s Cancer, Then Questions Its Timing
Former President Donald Trump first offered condolences to Joe Biden following news of his diagnosis with an aggressive, bone-spreading prostate cancer. On May 18, Trump posted on Truth Social:
“Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis … we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.” vcuhealth.org+15theguardian.com+15facebook.com+15
But Sympathy Quickly Turns to Cynicism
The next day, Trump began raising doubts—hinting that Biden’s cancer might have been hidden from the public much earlier. He reportedly said:
“I’m surprised that the public wasn’t notified a long time ago … to get to Stage 9, that’s a long time.” apnews.com+2factcheck.org+2thedailybeast.com+2thesun.co.uk+3theguardian.com+3thedailybeast.com+3
A Politico review noted Trump conflated the Gleason score, which measures cancer aggressiveness, with “stage,” hinting at potential confusion over medical terms. thesun.co.uk+6theguardian.com+6people.com+6
His comments were echoed by supporters, including his son Donald Trump Jr., who hinted at a cover-up by the Biden family—though offered no evidence. nypost.com
Experts Push Back
FactCheck.org and medical professionals say there is no proof Biden withheld a diagnosis. His last known prostate screening occurred in 2014, and the nodule was found only after he reported urinary symptoms in May 2025. pressroom.cancer.org+10factcheck.org+10apnews.com+10
They explain that a Gleason score of 9 indicates aggressive cancer—but doesn’t equate to a medical “Stage 9,” a non-existent designation. nypost.com+10factcheck.org+10thedailybeast.com+10
What This Means
This episode sheds light on how health issues become political flashpoints—especially when tied to terminology often misunderstood by the public. Trump’s shift from sympathy to suspicion has reignited the ongoing debate over transparency in presidential health.
