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Jill Biden Scared Joe Had Stroke, Releases Memo

5/28/2026

44 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Jill Biden told CBS she was frightened, thinking Joe Biden was having a stroke during the June 2024 Atlanta debate.
After the debate she praised his performance, saying he did a great job and knew all the facts, while Democratic leaders including Nancy Pelosi urged him to quit the race.
Jill Biden will release her memoir “View from the East Wing” on June 2, recounting the debate and her withdrawal decision.

History

Historical Context

In the 2008 race, Arizona Senator John McCain’s past melanoma became a campaign issue, prompting the Republican Party and Democratic opponent Barack Obama to address candidate health publicly. The episode, after McCain’s wins in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Florida, preceded the financial crisis and saw him finish with 46 percent of the popular vote, showing how health issues can shape campaign dynamics.

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Story summary

Jill Biden told CBS she was frightened, thinking Joe Biden was having a stroke during the June 2024 Atlanta debate.
After the debate she praised his performance, saying he did a great job and knew all the facts, while Democratic leaders including Nancy Pelosi urged him to quit the race.
Jill Biden will release her memoir “View from the East Wing” on June 2, recounting the debate and her withdrawal decision.

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