A newly released book examining the 2024 presidential election places renewed attention on Jill Biden’s influence within President Joe Biden’s administration, describing her as an increasingly significant figure in White House decision-making during a politically turbulent period. The book, 2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America, was published Tuesday and written by Josh Dawsey, Tyler Pager, and Isaac Arnsdorf. Drawing on reporting from inside the administration, the authors describe how the first lady’s role expanded as President Joe Biden moved through the final stretch of his presidency and reelection campaign.
According to the authors, Jill Biden’s growing influence was closely tied to the rise of Anthony Bernal, her longtime aide who served simultaneously as chief of staff, senior advisor, and assistant to the president. Bernal is portrayed as one of the most powerful figures in the East Wing, often acting as a gatekeeper and trusted voice in sensitive matters. The book claims Bernal’s authority became so pronounced that some aides were uncertain whether he was expressing his own views or speaking directly for the first lady. His close proximity to Jill Biden reportedly gave him broad influence across internal operations, with the authors writing that he “quickly bonded” with her and remained constantly by her side. Tensions also reportedly emerged inside Democratic circles. Bernal is said to have questioned the loyalty of veteran strategist Anita Dunn, a senior adviser who had served in both the Biden and Obama administrations. The disagreement reportedly centered on concerns over how openly the administration should address issues involving the president’s family.
The book also describes strict internal limits on discussing Hunter Biden during his federal trial in June 2024, which took place while President Biden was actively campaigning for reelection. During that period, Jill Biden reportedly made extraordinary efforts to attend court proceedings. She was present during the first three days of the trial, then traveled to France for D-Day commemorations before returning to Wilmington less than a day later for another court appearance. Several senior West Wing officials were reportedly surprised by her return, with some unaware she planned to attend. The book also revisits the aftermath of President Biden’s debate against Donald Trump, when Jill Biden publicly defended her husband’s candidacy. At a fundraiser shortly afterward, she insisted that he remained the strongest choice for the presidency, reinforcing her role as both political defender and family protector during a period of growing pressure inside the Democratic Party 🇺🇸📘
