Joe Biden may have left the Oval Office, but his voice — and his sharp wit — remain as forceful as ever.
A new national survey has reignited a familiar rivalry at the heart of American politics: Barack Obama versus Donald Trump. And Biden, never one to shy away from defending his former running mate or challenging his old opponent, delivered a blistering response that quickly made headlines.
The Poll That Sparked a Reaction
According to a recent Marquette University Law School poll, which surveyed just over 1,000 adults nationwide, Americans continue to hold the former Democratic president in higher regard than the 45th president.
The data shows that 57% of respondents view Barack Obama favorably, compared with 42% for Donald Trump. While Obama enjoys a positive favorability margin of +17 points, Trump’s ratings sit 15 points underwater — highlighting a continuing divide in how Americans see the two men’s legacies.
The poll results spread quickly across social media and cable news, drawing reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. But it was Joe Biden’s response that stood out.
Biden’s “Wrecking Ball” Comment
Speaking at a Nebraska Democratic Party gala in Omaha, Biden took direct aim at Trump — referencing one of Trump’s recent and controversial projects: the demolition of part of the White House’s East Wing to make space for a private ballroom.
“I knew Trump was going to take a wrecking ball to the country,” Biden said to applause. “But I had no idea there’d be an actual wrecking ball.”
He went on to describe the project as a “perfect symbol” of Trump’s presidency, accusing him of undermining the values and institutions that hold the country together.
“Trump has taken a wrecking ball not only to the people’s house,” Biden continued, “but to the Constitution, to the rule of law, and to our very democracy.”
The room reportedly erupted in laughter and cheers — though the comment also drew swift criticism from conservative commentators online, who accused Biden of “politicizing” the issue.
“You Work for Us” — Biden’s Fiery Message
Biden didn’t stop there. He went on to criticize Trump’s repeated claims that America is entering a “golden age” under his leadership.
“He now says we’re living in a ‘golden age,’” Biden said. “The only gold is the stuff he’s hanging on the mantle.”
Then, shifting to a more serious tone, he added, “You work for us, Mr. President. Not the other way around. You work for the people — not just the billionaires and millionaires.”
It was a passionate moment that reminded many of Biden’s 2020 campaign rhetoric, when he positioned himself as a defender of “ordinary working Americans” against what he described as Trump’s “self-serving leadership.”
A Personal Battle and a Public Mission
Biden’s fiery remarks come just months after he publicly shared details of his recent health challenges. In May, his office confirmed that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, which had spread to the bone.
According to his team, doctors discovered the illness after he began experiencing persistent urinary symptoms. He underwent a round of radiation therapy earlier this year.
Following his treatment, Biden spoke openly about the experience — praising medical professionals and calling for continued investment in health care and research.
“I thank God for the doctors, the nurses, and the breakthroughs we’re making in cancer research,” he said at the time. “But now, Trump and his allies are cutting health care funding, making it more expensive for nearly everyone.”
Even while facing serious health challenges, Biden has remained outspoken about issues that defined his presidency — especially protecting democratic institutions, supporting health care access, and maintaining America’s alliances abroad.
Still Speaking Out
Biden’s latest comments underline that his political instincts — and his drive to push back against Trump — remain strong. Though no longer in office, he continues to make public appearances supporting Democratic causes and speaking about the importance of civic engagement, accountability, and empathy in leadership.
At the Omaha gala, as the applause died down, Biden ended his remarks on a hopeful note: “The soul of this country has been tested before. It’s our job to make sure it never stops fighting.”
For supporters, his words were a reminder of the passion that once helped him win the presidency. For critics, they were a sign that the nation’s political debates — and rivalries — are far from over.
Either way, the poll’s message was clear: years after leaving the White House, Barack Obama still commands admiration from most Americans, while Donald Trump’s image remains as polarizing as ever. And Joe Biden, it seems, isn’t done weighing in on what that means for the country he once led.
