He's 82 Today! 12 Facts About Joe Biden's Life

Joe Biden made history in 2020 by becoming the oldest person ever elected president of the United States at the age of 78. Fast forward to today, and he’s already surpassed his own record. His tenure proves that age is just a number—especially when it comes to experience and determination.

Although Biden has spent much of his life in Delaware, he was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He proudly refers to himself as a “Scranton guy,” often using his working-class roots to connect with voters. His early years in Scranton still hold a special place in his heart, and he even joked about it during his presidential campaign: "I’m not from here, but I’m from here."

Biden is a self-proclaimed car enthusiast. In fact, he has an iconic 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray—his “baby”—that he’s owned for decades. The car is frequently mentioned by Biden as one of his most prized possessions. And yes, it’s electric—well, kind of. He recently added an electric vehicle (EV) to his collection as part of his push for greener energy solutions.

Biden is known for his affectionate nature, often engaging in friendly hugs and even the occasional bear hug with colleagues, friends, and, of course, the public. His "Joe Biden hug" became a symbol of his warmth, a characteristic he uses to connect with people on a personal level. He’s even been called "Uncle Joe" by many, thanks to his nurturing persona.

Yes, you read that right. In 2004, while Biden was serving as vice president, a fire broke out at the home of his family members in Delaware. Without hesitation, Biden rushed in to rescue their dog, Major. While Biden's own house was not at risk, his act of courage further cemented his reputation as a protector—and animal lover.

Before entering politics, Joe Biden was a star student. He graduated from the University of Delaware with a double major in History and Political Science, before earning his law degree from Syracuse University. While he sometimes jokes about his struggles with stuttering, his academic achievements demonstrate his intelligence and work ethic.

Biden’s love for ice cream is legendary. In fact, he has often joked that it’s one of his greatest pleasures. During his 2020 campaign, he even mentioned how much he enjoys a good scoop—especially when it’s from one of his favorite local shops. Biden’s ice cream addiction has become so well-known that a custom-made flavor called "Joe Biden's Cherry Chocolate Chip" was created during his 2020 campaign.

In 1972, at the age of 29, Biden made history when he was elected to the U.S. Senate. As a result, he became one of the youngest people ever to serve in that role. His rapid ascent to Washington was a testament to his talent and ambition, and he quickly became known for his charisma and ability to forge bipartisan relationships.

Biden’s love story with his wife, Jill, is one for the ages. The couple met on a blind date in 1975, arranged by Joe’s brother. After a slow start, they eventually hit it off, and their relationship blossomed. They were married in 1977, and today, Jill Biden is not only his wife but also the First Lady of the United States.

Joe Biden made history in 2021 when he became the first sitting president to ride in a fully electric vehicle. As part of his commitment to climate change and clean energy, Biden took a ride in a GMC Hummer EV during his visit to a General Motors facility in Michigan. It was a symbolic moment for both the president and the nation, as Biden advocates for a clean energy future.