In a revealing new book titled Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios journalist Alex Thompson uncover the behind-the-scenes reality of Joe Biden’s alleged cognitive decline during his presidency. The book paints a picture of a dual presidency—one marked by legacy and statesmanship, and the other increasingly defined by memory lapses, confusion, and strategic shielding by his close aides.
Why in News?
The book has sparked major political and public discourse since its release in May 2025. It follows the aftermath of Biden’s debated performance during the June 2024 debate with Donald Trump and his eventual withdrawal from the presidential race. With Biden now diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, the revelations have renewed discussions on presidential fitness, transparency, and media responsibility.
Key Highlights from ‘Original Sin’
Dual Image of Biden
- The book portrays two Bidens—one as the seasoned, empathetic Vice President, and another as a struggling figure behind closed doors during his presidency.
Alarming Incidents Cited
- Failure to recognize close political allies.
- Forgetting important personal milestones like his son Beau’s death anniversary.
- Struggles to maintain coherent thought during conversations.
Shielded Presidency
- Aides reportedly managed the presidency like a “five-member board,” with Biden as a nominal chairman.
- Tapper admits the media failed to fully investigate and report the decline in real-time.
Timeline & Related Developments
- 2019–2020: Early signs of decline began appearing.
- 2024: The June debate exposed visible cognitive strain.
- July 2024: Biden withdrew from the presidential race.
- May 2025: Book release coincides with news of Biden’s aggressive cancer diagnosis.
Media and Public Response
- Tapper reflects on missed opportunities to question Biden’s health more assertively.
- Raises ethical concerns about how health-related matters are reported in Washington.
Static Facts
- Joe Biden: 46th President of the U.S., served from January 2021 to January 2025.
- Beau Biden: Joe Biden’s son, died in 2015 due to brain cancer.
- Jake Tapper: CNN journalist, known for moderating presidential debates and political commentary.
Overall Significance
- Public Trust: Raises vital questions about the electorate’s right to transparency.
- Health Disclosure Norms: Suggests a need for standardized health transparency among political leaders.
- Media Role: Highlights journalistic responsibility in holding leaders accountable, even on sensitive issues like health.
ShivamAs a Content Executive Writer at Adda247, I am dedicated to helping students stay ahead in their competitive exam preparation by providing clear, engaging, and insightful coverage of both major and minor current affairs. With a keen focus on trends and developments that can be crucial for exams, researches and presents daily news in a way that equips aspirants with the knowledge and confidence they need to excel. Through well-crafted content, Its my duty to ensures that learners remain informed, prepared, and ready to tackle any current affairs-related questions in their exams.