Former U.S. President Joe Biden has described the current political climate as “dark days” for America, urging citizens to remain hopeful and vigilant in defending democratic institutions and free speech.
Speaking in Boston on Sunday night, Biden delivered his first public remarks since completing radiation therapy for an aggressive form of prostate cancer. He was addressing an audience after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Edward M. Kennedy Institute.
“Since its founding, America has stood as a beacon for the most powerful idea in the history of government that the people, not a dictator, hold the power,” said Biden, 82. “That idea is stronger than any army and more powerful than any ruler.”
In his remarks, the former president criticized Donald Trump’s administration for what he called “attacks on free speech” and efforts to expand executive power during the ongoing federal government shutdown, now the second-longest in U.S. history.
“Friends, I can’t sugarcoat any of this these are dark days,” Biden said, adding that the nation would eventually “find its true compass again” and “emerge stronger, wiser, more resilient, and more just as long as we keep the faith.”
Biden emphasized that American democracy depends on a presidency with limited power, a functioning Congress, and an independent judiciary. He praised those who continue to stand up for democratic principles including federal employees who have resigned in protest, comedians and universities that have faced political backlash, and Republican lawmakers who have opposed Trump’s actions.
“The late-night hosts continue to shine a light on free speech, knowing their careers are on the line,” Biden noted. “America is not a fairy tale. For 250 years, it’s been a constant push and pull between peril and possibility.”
Biden concluded his emotional address with a rallying message: “Get back up.”
The speech marked Biden’s return to public life after he left office in January following a single term. He withdrew from the 2024 race amid mounting concerns over his age, health, and performance in a high-stakes debate against Trump. His former vice president, Kamala Harris, ran to succeed him but was defeated by Trump in November 2024.
In May 2025, Biden’s office revealed he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer that had spread to his bones, with a Gleason score of 9, indicating an aggressive form of the disease.
Despite his health challenges, Biden’s Boston address underscored his enduring belief in America’s resilience and the power of collective action in defending democracy.
