Joe Biden’s presidential library dreams are hitting a wall. Major Democratic donors, once reliable cash cows, are clamming up, leaving the former president’s legacy project in a financial lurch. It’s a stark reminder that even political heavyweights can’t always bank on loyalty when the checks stop flowing.
As reported by the NYPost, former President Joe Biden is finding it tough to rally Democratic donors for his planned presidential library, with many hesitant to open their wallets. Reasons range from fears of Trump-era retaliation to frustration with Biden’s inner circle and his controversial re-election bid despite health concerns. This fundraising flop is casting a long shadow over Biden’s post-presidency plans.
Donors are spooked by the specter of President Donald Trump’s vindictive streak. “This is a very difficult time to raise large checks for Democrats because of how vindictive Donald Trump is,” said Chris Korge, Democratic National Committee Fundraising Chair. That’s a convenient excuse, but it smells like donors are dodging a sinking ship.
Some donors are blunt about their refusal to chip in. “No way,” one told NBC News when asked about contributing to Biden’s library. That’s not just a snub—it’s a sign the party’s elite are hedging their bets for bigger fights ahead.
Others are prioritizing the Democratic Party’s future over Biden’s legacy. “I’d like him to have some nice library,” one donor admitted, “but I just don’t see that’s where I’m going to spend my money.” It’s a polite way of saying Biden’s project isn’t worth the investment.
Personal grudges also play a role. Donors grumbled about Biden’s inner circle, citing unpleasant interactions and unreturned calls despite being tapped for cash. Sounds like the Biden team forgot the golden rule: don’t bite the hand that feeds you.
Biden’s health issues, spotlighted during a disastrous debate against Trump, fueled party frustration. His stubborn push for re-election, despite visible struggles, alienated even loyal supporters. That misstep is now costing him dearly in the donor room.
After the debate, Biden withdrew from the race last summer, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris stood by Biden’s side at a White House event on Sept. 26, 2024, but her nomination didn’t save the party from a November loss to Trump. Biden’s exit didn’t erase the bad taste left by his campaign.
Fundraising for the library, estimated to need $200 million to $300 million, is stuck in neutral. Compare that to the Obama Presidential Library, set to open in Chicago in spring 2025 at a cool $850 million. Biden’s team is dreaming big but coming up short.
Donors’ fears of Trump’s wrath aren’t abstract. People close to major Democratic funders noted the risk of becoming targets of the incoming administration. It’s a chilling effect, proving Trump’s influence extends even to Biden’s legacy projects.
Meanwhile, Trump’s own library fundraising is soaring, complete with a luxury jet gifted by the Qatari royal family. Biden’s team can only watch enviously as Trump’s machine keeps humming. The contrast couldn’t be more brutal.
Some donors feel burned by Biden’s tenure. “I want an $800,000 refund,” said personal injury lawyer John Morgan, referring to funds he raised for Biden that went to Harris. That kind of bitterness doesn’t exactly inspire generosity.
Morgan’s skepticism runs deeper. “It is my opinion no significant building will be built,” he said, citing Biden’s age and health as fundraising handicaps. Harsh, but it’s hard to argue when donors are this disillusioned.
Even the library board chairman, Rufus Gifford, struggles to spin this positively. “Those of us who love the guy but also understand the full picture want to see what we can do to protect and promote his legacy,” he said. That sounds like a plea for relevance, not a plan for success.
Biden met with President-elect Trump and first lady Jill Biden outside the White House on Nov. 13, 2024, but that courtesy didn’t soften donors’ resolve. The library project remains a tough sell, overshadowed by Trump’s dominance and Biden’s missteps. In a party desperate for fresh energy, a monument to the past feels like a luxury few can afford.
