Joe Biden faces the ultimate humiliation as his presidential library dream hits the rocks… and an old friend refuses to donate to his ‘tarnished legacy’
Joe Biden’s presidential library plans appear to have stalled amid weak fundraising and uncertainty over a site in Delaware. The setback matters because the proposed library was intended to preserve and present his presidential record, while fundraising and donor support have fallen short of the ambitions described when the project was first discussed.
The foundation reported $4 million in funding for 2024, which it said was left over from Biden’s failed re-election campaign, and spent $21,348 on equipment; a tax filing projected it would raise $11.3 million. Donor John Morgan said he would not contribute, citing decisions by people close to Biden that he believes tarnished the former president’s legacy. Wilmington officials discussed potential locations with Biden representatives, including Riverfront East, but no site has been confirmed; the article says his presidential records remain with the National Archives in Maryland.
- Biden’s library has little reported funding and no confirmed site.
- The foundation reported $4 million for 2024 and projected $11.3 million in fundraising.
- A prominent Democratic donor says he will not contribute.
New here? Start with this
A presidential library is a centre for a former president’s papers and records, and may include exhibits and public events. The president’s foundation typically raises money to build and run it, while the National Archives preserves official records.
Joe Biden is a former US president from Delaware, where his foundation has explored possible locations for a library. Wilmington officials have discussed options with his representatives, but no site has been confirmed; his presidential records remain in Maryland.
The project’s progress depends on fundraising and donor support, and the foundation reported limited funding for 2024. A library could shape how people study and encounter Biden’s presidency, though it is separate from the National Archives’ role in preserving official records.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A presidential library can preserve records and give the public access to a former president’s decisions and administration, so a stalled project may hinder that work and leave Biden’s record less accessible. Supporters could argue that fundraising takes time and that uncertainty about a site does not mean the project lacks value or will not proceed.
The case against
Donors and the public may reasonably question committing money while the project’s location, plans and funding remain uncertain. Morgan’s refusal reflects the view that a library should not be treated as an endorsement or reputation-building exercise, particularly if he believes decisions by people close to Biden damaged the legacy it would present.