Vice President Joe Biden told the ladies on “The View” that — unlike some other Democrats — he would not rule out a challenging a Hillary Clinton presidential run in 2016. “Whether she runs or not will not affect my decision,” he declared.
Biden appeared on the popular women’s program to discuss Obamacare and his tenure so far as vice president. Co-host Jenny McCarthy noted that her young son doesn’t even know what a vice president does, and asked Biden what he wants his “legacy” to be.
“Well, I want my legacy to be what I signed on for,” he began. “A vice president has no inherent power. It’s all reflective power. It all depends on the relationship with the President of the United States.”
The vice president explained that his relationship with President Obama means “he’s given me major assignments — carte blanche to take any assignment I’m given and do it my way. And it works because we are ideologically compatible and very close personal friends. So in that sense it’s very rewarding.” Biden noted that the president gave him “carte blanche” over the withdrawal of Iraq and the 2009 stimulus program.
Co-host Barbara Walters also asked the inevitable question on the 2016 presidential race. “If Hillary Clinton does not run — you have said that if she runs for president you will not run.”
“No I haven’t,” Biden interjected. “Look, the only reason to run for President of the United States is if you truly believe you’re in the position to do what you think is best for the country.” He claimed his experience in foreign policy “uniquely positions” him for the role. “Whether she runs or not will not affect my decision,” he finished.
Walters pressed further. “Does that mean that you WILL run, if it’s not dependent on her?” she asked.
“Three years is four lifetimes in a presidential campaign,” Biden deflected. “Along with it comes the family decision, and my wife is supportive . . . I absolutely not have said no. It’s as likely I run as I don’t run, I just truly haven’t made up my mind.”
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