Jill Biden Discusses Supporting Joe Biden After Debate Performance

Jill Biden shared her thoughts on supporting former President Joe Biden’s reelection bid in 2024, despite concerns about his debate performance against Donald Trump. Speaking with Craig Melvin on TODAY about her book, “View From the West Wing: A Memoir,” Jill discussed the emotional impact of that time.

Reflections on Support and Decision

When asked if she would advise Joe against running if given the chance to revisit the past, Jill expressed regret over the emotional strain it caused.

“As I look back, would I want to put Joe through the hurt and the pain that we felt during that time? Never,” she stated. “It was so hurtful. It had to be his decision. It had to be his decision alone because he had to live with that decision the rest of his life.”

In the immediate aftermath of the debate, Jill publicly defended Joe’s performance, stating it was “great” and that he “answered every question.” Nevertheless, the debate raised questions about Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities.

Confronting Challenges and Public Perception

Jill revealed her internal struggle after the debate.

“My mind is racing. What do I say to him? What do I say to him?” Jill said on TODAY. “I’m his wife. I’ve got to lift him up. I couldn’t publicly chastise him,” she emphasized.

The debate took place on June 27, 2024, in Atlanta. Subsequently, former Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee after Joe Biden dropped out. Harris’s memoir noted she didn’t believe Biden exited due to mental incapacity.

Biden faced accusations about cognitive issues. He sued the Justice Department to prevent releasing private conversations involving his 2017 memoir. Allegations in a report about mishandling classified materials were denied by the White House, despite confirming lapses.

Health Struggles

In May 2025, Joe Biden publicly addressed concerns regarding his mental acuity. He responded to claims in the book “Original Sin” that questioned his memory.

“They are wrong,” Biden remarked in an interview with ABC’s The View. “There’s nothing to sustain that.”

Joe Biden later disclosed his prostate cancer diagnosis, revealing the condition had spread to his bones. Jill Biden confirmed this during her TODAY interview, saying, “He’s doing OK.” She acknowledged the ongoing challenge he will face.

“I think Joe will live with cancer for the rest of his life,” Jill Biden stated.