CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios correspondent Alex Thompson have co-authored a new book, Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, set to be released on May 20 by Penguin Press.
The book investigates what the authors describe as a “cover-up” of Joe Biden’s cognitive decline and the circumstances that led to the Democratic Party’s defeat in the 2024 election. According to Penguin’s press release, Biden, his family, and his senior aides believed only he could defeat Donald Trump, leading them to downplay concerns about his health.
Tapper, who co-moderated Biden’s June 2024 debate—widely seen as a turning point in the election—stated, “What you will learn makes President Biden’s decision to run for reelection seem shockingly narcissistic, self-delusional, and reckless.” The authors argue that Biden’s visible struggles during the debate were not due to a cold, lack of preparation, or fatigue but were part of a long-term decline that had been hidden from the public.
The book, based on over 200 interviews, claims Biden’s inner circle knowingly concealed his limitations to justify his reelection bid, ultimately paving the way for Trump’s return to power. The authors describe this decision as Biden’s “original sin,” stating that the campaign’s denial of his health issues led to the Democratic Party’s defeat.
The release of Original Sin comes amid renewed interest in books analyzing the 2024 election, following a previously tepid market for books about Biden. While details remain under embargo, the book is expected to offer new revelations about the election and Biden’s final years in office.
