Joe Biden’s speech derailed by hecklers as he urges Democrats to ‘get up, dammit’

SEVERN, MARYLAND: Former President Joe Biden's return to the campaign trail was interrupted by hecklers on Saturday, June 27 night as he urged Democrats to remain engaged ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Speaking at the Maryland Democratic Party's 'Fight Back & Win Gala,' Biden repeatedly paused after members of the audience shouted during his remarks before continuing with his prepared speech. The event marked one of his most prominent public appearances in recent weeks as he continues undergoing treatment for Stage 4 prostate cancer.

Hecklers interrupt Biden as he urges Democrats to 'fight back'

Biden spent much of his address encouraging Democrats not to become discouraged by recent political setbacks and called on supporters to remain active ahead of next year's elections.

The former president's remarks were interrupted several times by hecklers in the audience, forcing him to pause before continuing. Throughout the speech, he also coughed on multiple occasions and at times appeared to squint toward the teleprompter while delivering his prepared remarks.

Drawing on a personal story, Biden recalled advice he frequently received from his late father whenever he faced setbacks. He told the audience his father would always say, "Get up, Joe!" Using that message to encourage Democrats, Biden said, "to all you who love our country, my message tonight is straightforward and simple: Get up, dammit. Get up now. Continue this fight!"

Closing his remarks with a call for unity, Biden added, "We can do this, and we will. We just need to remember... we are the United States of America! There is nothing beyond our capacity if we work together!"

After concluding his speech, Biden briefly appeared uncertain about where to exit the stage, asking for directions before leaving.

Speech comes as Democrats prepare for 2026 midterms

Biden addressed Democrats gathered at the Maryland Democratic Party's first-ever Fight Back & Win Summit and Gala, an event designed to organize activists, candidates and elected officials ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore described the event as an opportunity for Democrats to build momentum. "We have a unique opportunity not to just push back. This is our opportunity to push forward," Moore said.

Senator Chris Van Hollen also addressed attendees, saying, "We will not rewrite history, and we will not turn back the clock."

State leaders highlighted recent accomplishments in Maryland, including investments in child care, apprenticeship programs and education. Moore said the state had reduced teacher vacancies by 60% and pointed to the reopening of the Port of Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge as an example of coordinated government action.

Reflecting on the challenges facing Democrats, Biden told supporters that political setbacks should not discourage them. "We've faced dark, difficult times before," he said. "If there's one thing I know about the American people, they never give up, and we can't give up now. There's no quitting in this country. There's no quitting you."