California Leaders React To Biden Cancer Diagnosis

CALIFORNIA — California Democrats were joining national leaders in sending their thoughts to Joe Biden Sunday after it was announced that the 82-year-old former president was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Biden's office released the following statement Sunday:

"Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.

"While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management. The president and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians."

Gov. Gavin Newsom took to X on Sunday shortly after the news broke.

"Our hearts are with President Biden and his entire family right now. A man of dignity, strength, and compassion like his deserves to live a long and beautiful life. Sending strength, healing and prayers his way," Newsom wrote.

"My prayers are with President Biden and his family," wrote Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Los Angeles.

Sen. Alex Padilla, D-California, said: "Angela and I are praying for @JoeBiden, Jill and the entire Biden family. We hope they keep the faith and find the strength for the fight ahead. Our hearts are with you."

The state's other Democratic senator, Adam Schiff, wrote: "Eve and I are thinking of President Biden and his family during this difficult time. We are wishing him all the strength he needs as he takes cancer head on. And a speedy recovery."

President Donald Trump issued the following statement on the Truth Social platform: "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."

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who served under Biden and lost to Trump in the 2024 presidential election, wrote on X that she and her husband Doug Emhoff were "saddened to learn of President Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter -- and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery."