Jill Biden’s Political Ascent Amid Joe Biden’s Cognitive Decline: New Book Exposes White House Dynamics
Sarah Johnson
June 1, 2025
Brief
New book reveals Jill Biden’s rise as a powerful first lady, defending Joe Biden’s re-election amid his cognitive decline.
In a revealing new book, Original Sin, authors Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson unpack the extraordinary influence of former First Lady Jill Biden, portraying her as one of history’s most powerful first ladies. Affectionately dubbed "Dr. B" by White House insiders, Jill Biden evolved from a reluctant political spouse into a formidable force, fiercely protective of her husband, former President Joe Biden, amid growing concerns about his cognitive health.
Initially hesitant during Joe Biden’s early campaigns, Jill became his staunchest advocate, transitioning into a key political partner. She played a pivotal role in his 2020 campaign, vetting staff, reviewing ads, and ensuring only the most loyal aides surrounded her husband. Her trusted confidant, Anthony Bernal, reportedly kept a sharp eye on staff loyalty, while Jill herself weighed in on White House hires and international trip agendas, raising eyebrows among some national security officials.
Yet, the book highlights a more controversial side: Jill’s unwavering support for Joe Biden’s 2024 re-election bid, despite visible signs of his decline. Critics, including Donald Trump’s former press secretary Karoline Leavitt, have accused her of enabling a "cover-up" of the former president’s condition, pointing to moments like her spirited defense during a joint appearance on The View. Post-debate fallout in 2024 further intensified scrutiny, with Jill and son Hunter Biden urging the president to press on, even as allies like Sen. Debbie Stabenow and Gov. Josh Shapiro voiced concerns.
The narrative paints a picture of a devoted spouse caught in a storm of loyalty and ambition, fuming at Democrats who pushed for Biden’s exit while grappling with her own missteps, like overly protective praise after his faltering debate performance. Ultimately, she left the final call to Joe, saying, "This is your decision."
Original Sin offers a gripping look at a first lady whose influence reshaped the White House, for better or worse, against the backdrop of a deeply divided political landscape.
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Editor's Comments
Jill Biden running the White House show while Joe’s taking a cognitive siesta? Sounds like Dr. B’s got the loyalty of a guard dog and the playbook of a campaign boss. Here’s a joke: Why did Jill keep Joe in the race? Because she thought ‘four more years’ meant four more naps! The real story here is the tightrope walk of loyalty versus reality—Dr. B’s fierce devotion might’ve blinded her to the cracks in the foundation.
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