Karoline Leavitt Addresses Joe Biden's Cancer Diagnosis at White House Briefing

The White House Press Secretary revealed speaking to President Trump about Former President Biden's current state of health and what he said about the topic.

Karoline Leavitt addressed former President Joe Biden's cancer diagnosis during a White House press briefing on Monday, May 19, 2025. When asked whether President Donald Trump had spoken directly with Biden following the announcement, Leavitt clarified that no direct conversation had occurred but noted Trump's openness to it.

"I don't believe they have spoken but I'm sure the president would be open to doing that. I spoke to him last night about the former president's cancer diagnosis, and the statement he put out was the initial reaction he had with me on the phone as well," Leavitt told members of the press.

Although President Trump has not spoken directly with his predecessor, he issued a statement following the announcement of Biden’s diagnosis. "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," he wrote on Instagram.

Biden's office disclosed his condition late last week. According to the official statement released, the former president was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.

"On Friday [May 16, 2025], he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone," the statement read.

Biden, 82, is currently consulting with medical professionals to determine a course of treatment. He acknowledged the global support in a social media post featuring a photo of himself, his wife Jill, and their family cat. "Thank you for lifting us up with love and support," he wrote.