Former President Joe Biden says political and international figures, including European heads of state, continue to seek his advice—even after stepping down amid increasing criticism and concerns about his leadership.
Biden surprised many at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) convention in San Diego last week when he suggested he’s still playing an unofficial advisory role behind the scenes.
According to the Western Journal, Biden told SHRM President Johnny Taylor, “I’m getting calls—I’m not going to go into detail, I can’t—but from several European leaders asking me to get involved.” He added, “I’m giving advice, but I’m not [taking action]… things have changed.”
Democratic strategist Chris Jackson shared a clip of the moment on X, showing Biden speaking in a soft, at times hesitant tone that occasionally shifted to passionate emphasis mid-sentence.
“I often ask the rhetorical question: if America doesn’t lead, who will?” Biden said, his voice intensifying. “I’m serious—it’s not about power. Who else can bring people together?” He also claimed that lawmakers from both political parties continue to reach out to him.
“I’ve got a lot of Republican and Democratic friends who just want to talk,” he said. “Not because they think I have all the answers—just to bounce ideas around.”
Perhaps the most puzzling comment came when Biden added, “I’m also laying rubber with my ’67 Corvette on my driveway.”
Critics were quick to seize on the remarks, calling them outdated and symbolic of the larger concerns that plagued his presidency.
During his term, the U.S. faced rising inflation, surging gas prices, and ongoing tensions at the southern border. Biden ultimately declined to seek re-election, amid increasing pressure from within his own party.