New book paints Jill Biden as chief ‘denier’ of president’s ‘deterioration’
Former President Joe Biden’s inner circle considers First Lady Jill Biden one of the most powerful first ladies in history, according to CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios political correspondent Alex Thompson’s new book, “Original Sin.” The book reveals that Jill Biden, a PhD whom White House staffers affectionately called “Dr. B,” was initially a reluctant political spouse. However, as her husband’s political career progressed, she became his staunchest defender and a political partner in addition to a spouse.
The authors describe Jill Biden as a strong and protective force in the White House, as well as one of the chief supporters of the president’s decision to run for reelection. Despite criticisms from former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who accused Jill Biden of complicity in her husband’s cognitive decline, the first lady has continued to defend him.
During Biden’s 2020 presidential campaign, his sister Valerie “Val” Biden Owens and adult children Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden remained largely absent. In their absence, Jill Biden took on a more prominent role, weighing in on potential hires, reviewing campaign ads, and actively campaigning. She even sat in on job interviews for White House aide candidates and kept track of which staffers were most loyal, with the help of her trusted aide Anthony Bernal.
Jill Biden’s involvement extended to international trips, with the White House referring to her events as “spousal programming.” Her team would request talking points, a practice that some national security officials found unusual. Bernal was already planning her 2025 international travel schedule, indicating the first lady’s ongoing involvement in political affairs.
The book recounts an incident at a state dinner in 2022 where Jill Biden made a comment to French President Emmanuel Macron about the challenges of campaigning, leading to speculation about a potential reelection bid. The first lady was particularly sensitive to questions about Biden’s age and ability, especially following a consequential debate performance in the summer of 2024.
After the debate, Jill and Hunter Biden reportedly urged the president to continue his reelection campaign, with Hunter being described as determined to save his father. However, concerns from Democratic colleagues and friends about Biden’s ability to continue in the race began to surface, leading to tensions within the inner circle.
Despite the challenges and criticisms, Jill Biden remained fiercely loyal to her husband, emphasizing that the decision to continue the reelection campaign was ultimately his to make. The book details the first lady’s emotional response to the pressure and scrutiny from both allies and adversaries.
Fox News Digital has previously reported on Biden’s cognitive decline and his inner circle’s alleged role in covering it up. A spokesperson for Biden did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
In conclusion, Jill Biden’s influence and involvement in her husband’s political career have made her one of the most powerful first ladies in history. Her unwavering loyalty and support have been instrumental in shaping the course of Biden’s presidency and reelection campaign.
