Today's Read Contributor On May 20, 2025, journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson unveiled their latest book, Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again. In this provocative work, the authors delve into the health concerns surrounding President Joe Biden during his time in office, as well as the controversial decisions made during his reelection campaign. The book claims that there was a deliberate effort to cover up the extent of Biden’s health issues, particularly leading up to the 2024 presidential election.
Through meticulous reporting and interviews with key insiders, Tapper and Thompson reveal startling details about the deterioration of Biden’s health and how it may have impacted his ability to effectively govern. They argue that the cover-up surrounding his physical and mental state was a crucial factor in his decision to run for a second term, despite mounting concerns from both political allies and adversaries.
The book provides a candid analysis of the political ramifications of Biden’s health issues. Tapper and Thompson suggest that Biden’s decision to seek reelection, despite obvious health concerns, could be seen as a disastrous move for both his party and the country. The authors explore the implications of this decision, considering how it may affect the future of American politics and the potential long-term effects on Biden’s legacy.
Original Sin is not just an exploration of Biden’s health but also a broader commentary on the political machine that operates behind the scenes of presidential campaigns. Tapper and Thompson discuss the lengths to which political figures and institutions will go to protect their interests, even at the cost of transparency and accountability. They outline how the political establishment may have actively suppressed information about Biden’s condition to avoid weakening his candidacy in an already contentious election cycle.
In addition to the health-related issues, the book also tackles the broader question of age and leadership in modern American politics. With Biden being the oldest president in U.S. history, Tapper and Thompson raise important questions about the capacity of older politicians to continue in high office. They argue that his health struggles present a larger conversation about the demands of the presidency and whether or not age-related concerns should be a bigger factor in future campaigns.
Original Sin has generated significant controversy and debate. Critics of the book argue that it overstates the severity of Biden’s health issues and could be seen as a politically motivated attack. However, the book’s in-depth research and the range of sources consulted provide readers with a comprehensive view of one of the most pressing issues in contemporary American politics. As the nation heads toward the 2024 election, the book adds fuel to an already intense debate about the viability and future of President Biden’s political career.
