Biden Initiates Fundraising for Presidential Library in Delaware

Former President Joe Biden has announced plans to establish his presidential library in Delaware, assembling a team of former aides, friends, and political allies to spearhead the fundraising efforts. The newly formed governance board, comprising 13 members, has been tasked with overseeing the project, which aims to create a museum and archive dedicated to Biden’s legacy.

The Joe and Jill Biden Foundation approved the governance board this past week, appointing prominent figures such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, adviser Steve Ricchetti, and Democratic fundraiser Rufus Gifford as key members. This initiative comes at a challenging time, as the Democratic Party faces internal divisions and many major donors have become reluctant to contribute. Gifford, who will chair the board, acknowledged the need for a careful approach to fundraising, stating, “We’re not going to create a budget, we’re not going to set a goal for ourselves that we don’t believe we can hit.”

The financial requirements for presidential libraries have escalated significantly over the years. The library for George H.W. Bush cost approximately $43 million upon its opening in 1997, while Bill Clinton’s library reached around $165 million. The fundraising efforts for George W. Bush’s library exceeded $500 million before its dedication. The Obama Foundation has set an ambitious target of $1.6 billion for its center, which is set to open next year in Chicago. Gifford anticipates that Biden’s library costs will likely fall “somewhere in the middle” of these figures.

As part of the planning process, Biden’s team has engaged with officials from 12 of the 13 presidential libraries managed by the National Archives and Records Administration, seeking insights into programming and operational considerations. They have also begun discussions with local Delaware leaders to explore potential partnerships that could support the project. The vision for the Biden library includes an immersive museum that will highlight his four years in office, alongside spaces dedicated to leadership, civic engagement, and educational events.

Biden’s approach to library planning has been notably deliberate compared to recent predecessors. While former President Bill Clinton chose Little Rock, Arkansas, for his library shortly after taking office, Biden has taken a more measured stance. Barack Obama selected the site for his presidential center before leaving office, and George W. Bush made his decision well in advance of completing his term. Biden’s decision to establish the library in Delaware reflects his deep ties to the state, which has been a significant part of his political identity.

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer expressed enthusiasm for the library’s establishment, stating, “To Delaware, he will always be our favorite son. The new presidential library here in Delaware will give future generations the chance to see his story of resilience, family, and never forgetting your roots.”

The timeline for the library’s development remains to be seen, but Biden’s commitment to Delaware as the site underscores the state’s importance in his political narrative. Biden began his political career on the New Castle County Council in 1970 and served as a U.S. Senator for 36 years before becoming Vice President. His roots in the state are pivotal to his identity, having moved there from Pennsylvania as a child due to family circumstances.

As the Biden Foundation embarks on this significant endeavor, it faces the dual challenge of fundraising in a changing political landscape and fulfilling the expectations of a committed public eager to honor the legacy of the 46th president.