Former United States President Joe Biden has announced that his presidential memoir, Promise Me, America, will be released on November 17, 2026, offering readers an account of his presidency, the challenges he encountered and the decisions he made while serving as America’s leader.
In a social media statement, Biden said the book would explore his years in office, America’s national identity, democratic values and the country’s role in global affairs.
He described the memoir as a reflection of his confidence in the American people and the country’s democratic system of governance.
“More than anything, it’s about my faith in the American people and the great American experiment in self-governance and democracy,” Biden stated.
The former president also used the announcement to share an update on his health, revealing that he was diagnosed with cancer while working on the memoir.
Biden acknowledged that his health condition would affect his ability to undertake an extensive promotional tour, saying he would have fewer public conversations about the book than initially planned.
“Some days are better than others. It hasn’t stopped me. But sometimes it slows me down,” he said.
He, however, expressed optimism about his recovery, noting that his doctors remained encouraged by his response to treatment. He also thanked Americans who had offered prayers, kind messages and well wishes to him, his wife Jill Biden and their family.
The 83-year-old former president further shared a message of resilience, recalling advice from his father that he said continues to guide him through difficult moments.
“Champ, when you get knocked down, get up,” Biden quoted his father, adding that the lesson was equally important for America.
Biden also used the statement to reaffirm his belief in America’s founding principles, arguing that the country’s strength lies in its commitment to equality and democracy.
“We are blessed. America is the most unique nation on earth. Unlike other countries, we’re built on an idea,” he said.
He concluded by urging Americans not to abandon the principle of equality, declaring that “All of us are created equal.”
Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer in May 2025, with the disease having spread to his bones. His latest update comes as he prepares to release his memoir on November 17, 2026.
The memoir is expected to revisit major events of his four-year presidency, including his administration’s key policy decisions and his controversial 2024 decision to withdraw from the presidential race.
