Donald Trump Jr. faced fierce criticism after casting doubt on the legitimacy of Joe Biden’s recent cancer diagnosis, with many accusing him of exploiting a health crisis for political gain.
The controversy began when Trump Jr. reposted a thread by Dr. Steven Quay, who speculated that Biden must have known about his prostate cancer while in office, calling it “malpractice” for the disease to reach an advanced stage undetected. Trump Jr. doubled down, suggesting Jill Biden—an educator with no medical training—should have somehow diagnosed her husband sooner.
The reaction online was brutal. Critics slammed the remarks as “vile” and “heartless,” with bestselling author Don Winslow condemning Trump Jr.’s “disgusting post” without repeating its content. Others highlighted the irony of attacking Jill Biden’s credentials, given her decades of work in education rather than oncology.
The backlash overshadowed Trump Jr.’s earlier, more conciliatory post wishing Biden well. His father, former President Trump, struck a different tone entirely, expressing genuine concern on Truth Social: “Melania and I are saddened by Joe’s diagnosis and send our prayers for his recovery.”
Biden’s diagnosis—a high-grade, metastatic prostate cancer—was confirmed after new symptoms emerged. As he explores treatment options, the incident underscores how personal health struggles can become political flashpoints in today’s divisive climate.
