Original Sin is a nonfiction book that investigates why President Joe Biden decided to run for re-election in 2024, despite clear signs of his declining health and mental sharpness. The authors, Jake Tapper (CNN anchor) and Alex Thompson (Axios reporter), reveal how Biden's family and top aides worked hard to hide his struggles from the public, the media, and even other politicians1258.
The book's title refers to the "original sin" of Biden's decision to run again, which the authors argue set off a chain of problems for the Democratic Party and the country. Tapper and Thompson interviewed about 200 people, including high-level insiders, to uncover what really happened behind the scenes1.
1. The Main Idea
The book says that President Biden, who was already quite old, chose to run for president again even though he was having trouble with his memory and energy.
His family and closest advisors believed only he could beat Donald Trump, so they ignored or hid his problems instead of being honest about them58.
2. Hiding the Truth
Biden’s team carefully managed his public appearances so people wouldn’t notice his decline.
They lied to the public and journalists, and even considered extreme measures (like using a wheelchair if he won) to keep up appearances24.
Some people in the White House and Democratic Party knew about his issues but didn’t speak up, either because they were loyal, afraid, or wanted to protect their own careers2.
3. The Debate That Changed Everything
During the first debate with Trump in June 2024, Biden’s problems became obvious to everyone watching: he looked confused and struggled to answer questions138.
This debate made it clear that his team had been hiding the truth.
4. Consequences
The authors argue that by not being honest, Biden and his team hurt the Democratic Party and the country.
Their actions made it harder for another strong candidate to run, which helped Donald Trump win the election57.
The book says this was a huge mistake, comparing it to a Greek tragedy where trying to avoid a problem actually causes it to happen57.
5. Why It Matters
The story raises big questions about honesty, responsibility, and leadership.
It warns about what can happen when leaders and their teams care more about staying in power than telling the truth.
Original Sin is about how hiding problems and not being honest can lead to even bigger disasters.
The book uses real interviews and behind-the-scenes stories to show how important decisions are made-and sometimes covered up-at the highest levels of government.
It’s a warning about the dangers of putting personal ambition and fear of losing above the needs of the country.
This summary should help you understand the main ideas and lessons from Original Sin in a clear, straightforward way.