Former President Joe Biden appeared visibly unsteady and struggled to deliver his remarks at the National Bar Association’s 100th annual awards gala in Chicago on Thursday night.
The event took place months after Biden disclosed he is battling advanced prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.
At 82 years old, Biden walked slowly onto the stage flanked by two of his granddaughters. After receiving a standing ovation, he looked around briefly to find his seat, hesitated, and slouched into a chair before beginning his address.
Video footage showed moments where he appeared disoriented and lost for words.
Throughout his roughly 20-minute speech, Biden repeatedly stumbled over his words, though he raised his voice at times to emphasize key points, per the New York Post.
He issued a stark warning that the U.S. is living through “dark days” and accused the Trump administration of waging an “existential” fight against minority communities. Biden also used the platform to highlight his record on civil rights.
“These are dark days, but you’re all here for the same reason I left that prestigious law firm to go to the defender’s office years ago,” Biden said. “It’s because our future is literally on the line and we must be unapologetic of fighting for the future.”
Despite the serious tone, Biden included some lighter moments during his remarks.
He made a self-deprecating joke about his age, quipping, “When I was elected [in 1972], I had the dubious distinction to be elected the youngest senator in American history and the oldest president in American history. It’s hell turning 40 twice.” The crowd responded with laughter.
Since departing the White House in January, Biden has largely avoided public appearances, a decision attributed to his evident mental and physical decline. He declined to seek a second term, and his former vice president, Kamala Harris, was defeated by President Donald Trump in a decisive election.
The gala was a high-profile event hosted by the National Bar Association, the oldest and largest network of predominantly Black lawyers and judges in the United States. Biden was the recipient of the organization’s highest honor, the C. Francis Stradford Award, recognizing his long career and efforts.
Other notable speakers at the event included far-left Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, former MSNBC host Joy-Ann Reid, and New York State Attorney General Letitia James.
Biden’s appearance and speech attracted widespread attention, not only for his remarks but also because of his visible struggle to articulate his thoughts clearly.
This is particularly notable given his recent revelation in May that he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer, which has progressed despite treatment.
Additionally, Biden’s speech came shortly after a turbulent period for his family. His son, Hunter Biden, agreed to a voluntary disbarment in June stemming from issues related to drug use and alleged violations of gun laws.
