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President Donald Trump has expressed sympathy and for Joe Biden following the announcement of the former president's battle with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
In a statement released shortly after Biden's diagnosis was made public, Trump, the 47th President of the United States, said he was saddened to hear the news and extended heartfelt wishes to the Biden family during what is expected to be a challenging period.
"We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery," Trump said in a statement, issued on behalf of both himself and First Lady Melania Trump.
The message came just hours after Biden's spokesperson confirmed that the 81-year-old former commander-in-chief had been diagnosed with an advanced form of prostate cancer. The cancer, described as "aggressive," has reportedly spread to the bone, and Biden is now evaluating treatment options with his medical team.
A pause in politics amid a personal battle
Despite years of political animosity between the two men, Trump's gesture marked a rare moment of civility, especially given their deeply contentious rivalry during the 2020 presidential election.
Biden defeated Trump in that race after a bitter campaign, only to bow out of the 2024 race earlier this year following a widely criticized debate performance that raised new concerns about his age and health.
Trump, now in his second non-consecutive term as president after winning the 2024 election, has largely avoided commenting on Biden's decision to step away from public life. However, his latest statement suggests a willingness to set politics aside in the face of serious health concerns.
Biden's health situation has reignited discussions about the physical demands of the presidency and the pressures that come with public service at an advanced age.
While it is unclear what treatment course Biden will pursue, his team has said that the former president and his family are carefully considering the best path forward.
Trump's comments, though brief, struck a tone of dignity and comion. As the news of Biden's diagnosis spread, several current and former officials from both parties also offered their well-wishes, highlighting a rare moment of unity in an otherwise polarized political climate.
While politics will undoubtedly resume its usual pace in Washington, for now, attention turns to Biden's health, and to the hope that he can mount a strong fight against the disease.