Cancer-Stricken Ex-President Joe Biden Faces Intense Backlash for Remarks at Rev Jesse Jackson's Funeral

The solemn atmosphere of Reverend Jesse Jackson's funeral took an unexpected turn when former President Joe Biden delivered a series of controversial remarks. While the event was intended to honour a civil rights icon, the focus shifted rapidly to Biden's health and cognitive state.

At the event, Biden told the audience that he was 'smarter than most' in the room. His statements have reignited a national debate regarding his fitness and cognitive state, with many questioning his mental capacity.

'He's Never Been Smart'

Several politicians took to the podium to deliver remarks at Jackson's funeral, among them former President Biden. During his address, Biden sparked immediate condemnation from onlookers and commentators alike after saying, 'I am a hell of a lot smarter than most of you.'

This assertion was met with derision on social media, where users questioned the appropriateness of such a remark at a funeral.

'Joe Biden confuses stuttering with dementia. They are not the same, but he wouldn't know that. As for being smart, he's never been smart. Also, insulting black audiences is the one thing he's good at,' one user wrote on X.

Many pointed to the comment as further evidence of cognitive decline, with some specifically citing it as a symptom of dementia. Critics argued that the lack of social awareness required to make such a claim in a grieving environment was telling.

Another user described him as a 'dementia-riddled grifter.' 'I never considered Joe Biden to be one of the best leaders, of any time,' the user added.

The reaction extended beyond his intellectual claims, as observers noted a perceived disconnect between his words and the occasion. Some commentators argued that Biden has long confused his lifelong stuttering with more serious cognitive issues, maintaining that his latest rhetorical stumble highlights a persistent pattern of behaviour that many find deeply concerning for a former head of state.

Biden Addressed His Stuttering

In his eulogy, Biden acknowledged his struggles with stuttering, noting that it had been a challenge since childhood.

'Now, if I told you all earlier, when I was a kid, I had a cleft palate or club foot, none of you would have laughed, but it's okay to laugh at stuttering,' he said. 'I'm not being critical of you, but think about it. It's the one place where people think you're stupid. Oh, really? I'm hell of [a] lot smarter than most of you.'

Biden added that he was joking, while noting that being laughed at 'makes you feel really small.'

In his broader eulogy, Biden traced Reverend Jackson's long influence on American civil rights and politics. He spoke of their shared decades in the public eye and remembered Jackson for his 'passion' and 'courage.'

'I knew Jesse and history remembers him. I know him as determined and tenacious. I know him as underrated, undeterred and unafraid, not a joke,' Biden said of the late civil rights activist. 'And more than most, Jesse was dedicated with every fiber in his being, to redeeming the soul of America. The soul of America.'

Serious Health Battles and Rising Dementia Claims

Biden's public appearance comes at a time of significant personal health challenges, including his ongoing battle with cancer. In May 2025, Biden announced that he had been diagnosed with 'aggressive' prostate cancer.

The visible physical toll of his treatment has contributed to the public's perception of his overall condition. While his team often attributes his verbal slips to a childhood stutter, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that the nature of his confusion and recent outbursts point to a more profound neurological issue.