Challenges in the Life of Jill Biden in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Jill Biden faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Jill Biden is an American educator and was the First Lady of the United States from 2021 to 2025, as the wife of President Joe Biden. Prior to this, she served as the Second Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017 during her husband's vice presidency. A lifelong educator, Biden has taught English at Northern Virginia Community College since 2009, balancing her professional career with her public role.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

May 2015: Death of Beau Biden

In May 2015, Jill Biden's stepson, Beau Biden, passed away from brain cancer, which she described as a "totally shattering" loss that deeply impacted her life and faith.

July 2020: Criticism of Betsy DeVos and Emphasis on Science-Based Education Strategy

In July 2020, Jill Biden spoke out about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, criticized U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos for political motivations, and emphasized the need for a clear, science-based education strategy.

December 2020: Backlash over Op-Ed Regarding "Dr." Title

In December 2020, an op-ed piece in The Wall Street Journal urging Jill Biden to drop the "Dr." from her name because she is not a medical doctor was met with widespread backlash.

February 2022: Acknowledging the Dropping of Free Community College Tuition

In February 2022, during an appearance before the Community College National Legislative Summit, Jill Biden publicly acknowledged that the free community college tuition item had been dropped from the Build Back Better Act. She expressed her disappointment, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives.

July 2022: Claimed Latino Americans were as unique as tacos

At the July 2022 conference of Latino advocacy organization UnidosUS, Jill Biden claimed Latino Americans were as "unique" as tacos and mispronounced the word "bodegas". Her Latino stereotyping caused widespread condemnation, and she later apologized.

July 2022: CNN poll revealed decline in favorability ratings

During June–July 2022, a CNN poll revealed that Jill Biden's favorability ratings had declined compared to the time of her husband's inauguration. The poll also showed that Biden was still more popular among Republicans than both the president and vice president.

July 2022: Expresses Frustration with Administration Challenges

In July 2022, Jill Biden expressed frustration with the challenges her husband's administration faced in addressing various issues.

August 2022: Jill Biden Contracts COVID-19

In August 2022, Jill Biden, who was fully vaccinated and had received two booster shots, contracted COVID-19. She entered isolation protocols to prevent further spread.

September 2023: Jill Biden Contracts COVID-19 Again

In September 2023, Jill Biden contracted COVID-19 again, adding to her experience with Rebound Covid.

January 2025: CNN Poll shows favorability and unfavorability ratings at the end of term as First Lady

As Jill Biden's term as First Lady came to an end in January 2025, a CNN poll showed her with a 33% favorability rating and a 31% unfavorability rating with 35% unsure how they feel about her.