Former President of the U.S. Joe Biden delivered a fiery and defiant speech in Boston on Sunday evening, stating that the political climate during President Donald Trump is among the most challenging periods in recent American history. However, the 82-year-old Democrat urged the citizens not to give up hope on democracy or fall into hopelessness.
Delivering his first public address since undergoing radiation therapy for his advanced prostate cancer, Biden accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Edward M. Kennedy Institute and seized the moment to make a passionate call to action in the defense of American values.
“Dark days,” Biden said, his voice stern but somber. “Since America’s founding, America has served as a beacon to the best idea ever conceived in government — the idea that freedom and justice are the possession of the people, not the powers. That idea is more powerful than any army, and more powerful than any autocrat.”
Biden Condemns Trump’s “Overreach” and Calls for Constitutional Balance
Biden condemned what he referred to as Trump’s bid to construct executive power and undermine institutions designed to limit the presidency. While the federal government heads into its second-longest closure, Biden said the crisis has become “a tool of control” rather than one of governance.
“Amercia depends on boundaries — a law-abiding presidency, a Congress that serves the people, and an independent judiciary,” Biden stated. “When one man tries to warp that system for personal reasons, the very foundations of our system start to shake.”
The address is timed as Trump is drawing severe criticism for his handling of the government shutdown and mounting concerns about his use of executive orders to shape policy across key federal agencies.
“America Is Not a Fairy Tale”
Biden otherwise established a different tone, calling on Americans to “stay in the fight” and not succumb to political fatigue.
“I can’t sugarcoat any of it,” he admitted. “These are dark days — but we will find our compass once again. We always have. We will come out stronger, wiser, and more just — as long as we keep the faith.”
He also praised ordinary citizens, government officials, and comedians who continue to voice opposition against censorship and intimidation, calling them “the heartbeat of free speech.”
The late-night television hosts just continue to shed light on the truth, even if their own careers depend on it,” Biden said. “And there are still Republicans — yes, Republicans — who have the courage to stand up for what is right. That’s America.”
A Personal Battle and Political Reflection
Biden also reflected on his own battle with cancer, revealing that his Gleason score — a measure of prostate cancer’s aggressiveness — was 9, among the most severe levels. “It’s been a fight, but I’m still here,” he said to applause. “And I’ll keep fighting — for myself, and for this country.”
The former president stepped down in January after a tumultuous one term with partisan conflict and health problems. He withdrew from the 2024 campaign after a dismal debate performance against Trump and increasing pressure from within his own party. His former vice president, Kamala Harris, later ran but ultimately lost to Trump in the 2024 election.
“Get Back Up”
Biden closed his remarks with a rallying call reminiscent of his past campaign speeches:
“America is not a fairy tale. For 250 years, we’ve lived in constant struggle between peril and possibility,” he said. “But every time we’ve fallen, we’ve gotten back up. And we’ll do it again — together.”
The audience, filled with lawmakers, academics, and civic leaders, rose to applaud him — a demonstration of the enduring popularity of Biden’s resiliency message during uncertain times.
