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Joe BidenCongratulations to our presumptive Democratic nominee, Joe Biden!
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:53 AM Jun 2019

WaPo: 'Middle Class Joe' Biden has reaped millions in income since leaving the vice presidency

....(Joe) Biden points out on the presidential campaign trail that he was often the poorest member of the United States Senate, and for at least a decade has referred to himself as “Middle Class Joe.” But since leaving office he has enjoyed an explosion of wealth, making millions of dollars largely from book deals and speaking fees that ranged to as much as $200,000 per speech, public documents show.

As Biden traveled the country before announcing his presidential campaign this spring, his sponsors provided VIP hotel suites, town cars and professional drivers, chartered flights and travel expense reimbursements that for some of his appearances reached at least $10,000 per event, according to contracts obtained by The Post through public records requests.

The Washington Post found at least 65 instances in which Biden gave a speech or appeared at a book event; in at least 10 instances he did not take a fee, although in some of those cases he was reimbursed for travel expenses. Biden’s campaign said he has given less than 50 paid speeches, but declined to be more specific about exactly how many he delivered, or how much he earned in total.

...Paid speeches provided another profitable money stream. Most of Biden’s speaking engagements involved universities or existing lecture series. He appeared in 2017 at a finance and technology conference run by Anthony Scaramucci, who two months later would have a brief stint in the Trump administration, and at a health care conference run by JPMorgan Chase.

Although Biden’s campaign said his paid speeches amounted to under 50 since he left the vice presidency, it would not provide a list of them. Four contracts, however, were obtained by The Post through public records requests, some of which have been previously reported. They show that he charged between $150,000 and $200,000 per speech.

More at https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/once-the-poorest-senator-middle-class-joe-biden-has-reaped-millions-in-income-since-leaving-the-vice-presidency/2019/06/25/931458a8-938d-11e9-b570-6416efdc0803_story.html?utm_term=.717bff9b00b0


Release the list of paid speeches and all transcripts!

Or maybe nominate someone who won’t enable Trump to run pretty much exactly the same campaign he did in 2016.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
119 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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WaPo: 'Middle Class Joe' Biden has reaped millions in income since leaving the vice presidency (Original Post) BeyondGeography Jun 2019 OP
So? hlthe2b Jun 2019 #1
Good for him. Lochloosa Jun 2019 #11
So Biden is earning money after being VP? IluvPitties Jun 2019 #2
Warren is super wealthy...so? Demsrule86 Jun 2019 #3
So what... Zoonart Jun 2019 #4
I've never understood why people assume something insidous... brooklynite Jun 2019 #5
It doesn't take much imagination BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #6
The only people I recall complaining in 2016... brooklynite Jun 2019 #7
Here's a more realistic view of all that BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #13
Good article. Thank you for posting it. CentralMass Jun 2019 #41
Sigh sacto95834 Jun 2019 #107
Thanks BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #115
Yep mcar Jun 2019 #21
That's the thing, it's "imagination". I've only see speech transcripts used as an issue..... George II Jun 2019 #12
Damn right we learned that lesson. But her emails... But her speeches.... MrsCoffee Jun 2019 #47
Succinctly put, Mrs Coffee Hekate Jun 2019 #90
+1 and then some. oasis Jun 2019 #112
Not to pick on Biden, because it's a perfectly legal and common practice. marylandblue Jun 2019 #15
Exactly...wages are out of whack when a football player or the likes gets millions and ... SWBTATTReg Jun 2019 #80
Yes...but how much is enough? sacto95834 Jun 2019 #108
Yes, that's all true. I don't blame Biden for taking the generous offers, but marylandblue Jun 2019 #114
Here we go again. WHO CARES except supporters of candidates who are far behind Biden? George II Jun 2019 #8
Weak sauce Vegas Roller Jun 2019 #9
"Weak sauce" I love it. Nt emmaverybo Jun 2019 #103
Biden isn't my first choice, but Bettie Jun 2019 #10
Hear, hear! Enough already!!!!!! secondwind Jun 2019 #14
Books are fine, paid corporate speeches for monster bucks are a potential disaster BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #20
Why? mcar Jun 2019 #23
Authenticity eom BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #25
Simple branding rather than authenticity. LanternWaste Jun 2019 #66
What is inauthentic about giving a speech? mcar Jun 2019 #83
Speeches are bad, but if you write a best-selling book, you can be a millionaire, too. betsuni Jun 2019 #93
I can't keep up with the rules, betsuni mcar Jun 2019 #95
I know. When in doubt, ask: What Would Bernie Do? betsuni Jun 2019 #97
... mcar Jun 2019 #98
What about books? A book is a speech you pay for and read. betsuni Jun 2019 #94
So, no one else Bettie Jun 2019 #28
Recently and at $150k-$200k a pop? BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #29
That's not a lot of money for a political rock star. Dr Hobbitstein Jun 2019 #56
Hey, Obama recently got $600k for a gig in Colombia BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #65
Nah, it's what you do if you're in demand and you want to do it. Dr Hobbitstein Jun 2019 #92
If you'd like to know... LanternWaste Jun 2019 #68
Senators aren't allowed to collect speaking fees BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #69
I'll bet my bottom dollar LibFarmer Jun 2019 #43
No way, man TheFarseer Jun 2019 #82
I don't think he will run in 2024 LibFarmer Jun 2019 #88
Sanders has already filed paper work to run for the senate as an independent in 2024 Thekaspervote Jun 2019 #106
I don't think he will run LibFarmer Jun 2019 #111
Obviously some have learned nothing. MrsCoffee Jun 2019 #50
You seem to be the only one worked up over it BannonsLiver Jun 2019 #75
I've heard people like to be paid for their work. Just rumors, of course. wyldwolf Jun 2019 #16
Good for him mcar Jun 2019 #17
But what about Warren's speaking fees? wyldwolf Jun 2019 #18
lol dude that's weak sauce shanny Jun 2019 #52
it's actually pretty potent sauce... wyldwolf Jun 2019 #71
lol again shanny Jun 2019 #81
lol... again wyldwolf Jun 2019 #84
15 years ago before she entered politics? BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #102
Are you denying Warren has taken cash from a lobbyist and as an "expert witness?" wyldwolf Jun 2019 #104
As a leading expert in bankruptcy laws and related legal matters, she was paid expert witness fees. hedda_foil Jun 2019 #116
"we'll see if there's an issue there." - that's where the spin comes in wyldwolf Jun 2019 #117
This message was self-deleted by its author irisblue Jun 2019 #19
Notto Disu Shitto Agen. Scurrilous Jun 2019 #22
So how do you feel about candidates who give "free" speeches to an auditorium full of... George II Jun 2019 #24
Who are they potentially beholden to as a result of that? BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #27
It's just another form of getting "paid" for speeches, which seems to be the issue here. George II Jun 2019 #30
Who is paying is the issue BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #31
Sadly people are making this an issue..... George II Jun 2019 #39
Bernie's conference sponsor paid for the books and gave them out for free marylandblue Jun 2019 #57
That is different. That is a religious revival Vegas Roller Jun 2019 #59
Has he released his taxes yet? I remember that's very important. Nanjeanne Jun 2019 #26
Here... brooklynite Jun 2019 #32
Only 18?!?! PatSeg Jun 2019 #38
Sorry. I should have said ones since he was out of office. Nanjeanne Jun 2019 #48
He's released 18 years of tax returns without prodding. The last three (when out of office).... George II Jun 2019 #35
Been asked and answered repeatedly. MrsCoffee Jun 2019 #67
LOL I wouldn't go down that path BannonsLiver Jun 2019 #76
Almost everyone PatSeg Jun 2019 #33
good let's go Joe ! stonecutter357 Jun 2019 #34
Good God in Butter Botany Jun 2019 #36
Amen to that!! Peacetrain Jun 2019 #42
Not a BFD. Scoopster Jun 2019 #37
I hate jealous headlines dreamland Jun 2019 #40
Not picking on Biden or Sanders because it's all legal and common practice, but marylandblue Jun 2019 #85
Just like all the other ridiculous bullshit.... quickesst Jun 2019 #44
Imagine the horror had he written a book. And bought a lake house. Autumn Jun 2019 #45
Politicians are rich? Who in the HELL knew? Watchfoxheadexplodes Jun 2019 #46
Didn't Trump say Clarity2 Jun 2019 #49
Should be fun if the usual suspects have a go at millionaire dem OnDoutside Jun 2019 #51
Hillary's Speeches, Redux. MineralMan Jun 2019 #53
OMG! OMG! OMG! OMG! left-of-center2012 Jun 2019 #54
Some people write books and become rich. Some people give democratisphere Jun 2019 #55
Dear God. Not the right wing "release the speeches" bit. SouthernProgressive Jun 2019 #58
Some people obviously don't recognize a lament when they see one BeyondGeography Jun 2019 #60
Your mourning didn't go unnoticed. NT SouthernProgressive Jun 2019 #61
Quit lamenting and back the absolute most qualified Presidential candidate the Democrats have. democratisphere Jun 2019 #64
+1000. nt ecstatic Jun 2019 #63
Another dud .. about to fail LibFarmer Jun 2019 #62
Oh, great. Polly Hennessey Jun 2019 #70
What? "although in some of those cases he was reimbursed for travel expenses"? tishaLA Jun 2019 #72
Matt Vizer. Every article this guy writes is critical of Joe Biden. blue neen Jun 2019 #73
Good catch! Scurrilous Jun 2019 #87
Release the transcripts BannonsLiver Jun 2019 #74
They need to be more concerned with what the current "president" is doing to earn money. Afromania Jun 2019 #77
Who cares? Gothmog Jun 2019 #78
Write something good about Elizabeth Warren, avoid recycled character assasination on other emulatorloo Jun 2019 #79
We have the Squatter-in-Chief involved in a grifter bonanza and . . . peggysue2 Jun 2019 #86
How dare he? All True Dems wear sackcloth and go barefoot from one place to another... Hekate Jun 2019 #89
I know a few homeless people who we could nominate - OhZone Jun 2019 #91
"It must be a fantastic speech, a brilliant speech which you would want to share with the American betsuni Jun 2019 #96
it's mostly resentful white men who have a problem with this JI7 Jun 2019 #99
Do we blame rump or our own parties purity police ? Huh?????? nt UniteFightBack Jun 2019 #100
Good. He was one of the poorest senator's at the time he entered and for some time after. nt emmaverybo Jun 2019 #101
And time to keep it in perspective thegoose Jun 2019 #105
the point is he didn't get wealthy KT2000 Jun 2019 #109
Never mind about this...I think you should demand the emails!!! Demsrule86 Jun 2019 #110
Poor David Sirota NYMinute Jun 2019 #113
he's such a tool. wyldwolf Jun 2019 #118
This sounds like the same attacks the Sander's backers hurled at HRC. Fla Dem Jun 2019 #119
 

IluvPitties

(3,181 posts)
2. So Biden is earning money after being VP?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:58 AM
Jun 2019

Wow, that's news!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,347 posts)
3. Warren is super wealthy...so?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:59 AM
Jun 2019

Biden was so broke when he left the VP slot that Obama helped him with medical bills. He needs to make a living.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Zoonart

(11,747 posts)
4. So what...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:01 AM
Jun 2019

at the time he became VP, Biden had one of the most modest net worth of anyone in Washington. This was attested to by Brennan who, at the time, had seen all of his financials, for intelligence vetting purposes.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

brooklynite

(93,839 posts)
5. I've never understood why people assume something insidous...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:01 AM
Jun 2019

Former politicians are invited because they're a draw for the conference or meeting, and the speaker offers knowledgeable perspective on issues of interest. What do you imagine in actually occurring?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
6. It doesn't take much imagination
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:04 AM
Jun 2019

To see how paid speeches would be used against him in the GE. As if we didn’t have a chance to learn that lesson already.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

brooklynite

(93,839 posts)
7. The only people I recall complaining in 2016...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:07 AM
Jun 2019

...were Sanders supporters suggesting that Clinton was a corporate sell-out. I don't recall it being an issue in the GE.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

CentralMass

(15,265 posts)
41. Good article. Thank you for posting it.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:40 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

sacto95834

(393 posts)
107. Sigh
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 07:23 PM
Jun 2019

I truly don't understand why Biden and Clinton accepted such extraordinary speaking fees if their time in public office isn't done. It always will come up and used by the opposition.

Like many here, I don't think it immoral to accept these fees after the fact when you are a private citizen and retired from public life. At that point, it's nobody's business and you don't have to answer questions about them unless you feel like it.

However if you are still in public life, to accept these types of large fees will NEVER play well and there will always be a suggestion of undue influence. Why commit an unforced error when you don't have to?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
115. Thanks
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:15 PM
Jun 2019

It’s a very straightforward point but so difficult for many here to accept. Blind partisanship is blind.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

mcar

(42,206 posts)
21. Yep
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:24 AM
Jun 2019

going back to the well, it appears.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
12. That's the thing, it's "imagination". I've only see speech transcripts used as an issue.....
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:13 AM
Jun 2019

....only twice, both times by candidates or supporters of candidates who are far behind the front runner.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

MrsCoffee

(5,801 posts)
47. Damn right we learned that lesson. But her emails... But her speeches....
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:53 AM
Jun 2019

Stupidest shit ever and we aren’t going to repeat it.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Hekate

(90,189 posts)
90. Succinctly put, Mrs Coffee
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 04:07 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

oasis

(49,150 posts)
112. +1 and then some.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:23 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

marylandblue

(12,344 posts)
15. Not to pick on Biden, because it's a perfectly legal and common practice.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:17 AM
Jun 2019

But the speaking fees are ridiculously large. It's unseemly at best. $200,000 to speak to a select audience for an hour compared to what we pay for public school teacher to do that with a bunching of unruly children full time. It's unseemly even compared to what he got to do his much more important previous job. Our society is out of whack in how and why it values certain jobs.


I'd rather pay the Vice President $2 million and give him a generous pension while prohibiting speaking fees, lobbying and book deals after his term is up. That way at least we will know he isn't worried about medical expenses while doing his real job, or hurting for cash when he leaves office.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

SWBTATTReg

(21,856 posts)
80. Exactly...wages are out of whack when a football player or the likes gets millions and ...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:13 PM
Jun 2019

millions of dollars vs. many different professions (not just teachers). Minimum wages have been stuck at stagnant levels for literally decades (at the federal level) and still there are some who are insisting that there isn't a problem with the current federally mandated minimum wage. Pathetic.

Everything else has been going up and yet the republicans still insist that minimum wages need to be kept at their current low levels?!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

sacto95834

(393 posts)
108. Yes...but how much is enough?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 07:33 PM
Jun 2019

Many politicians who retire from public life, especially one like Biden who has been in Congress since the 70s have a very generous retirement. He was a Senator and the Vice President. I'm sure his pension surpasses many, many typical Americans. That said, like most Americans, the question always arises: is that enough?

It must be very difficult to turn down speaking fees in the hundreds of thousands dollars for an hour's lecture. Likewise, invitations to sit on Boards of Directors that often pay generous stipends for attending a meeting.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

marylandblue

(12,344 posts)
114. Yes, that's all true. I don't blame Biden for taking the generous offers, but
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:28 PM
Jun 2019

I question our society for offering. Theoretically, it's all based on merit, but in practice it's not true. Rather a self-sustaining elite has gotten control of an ever greater share of the wealth and decided that a few hours of an ex-VP's time, is worth more than an entire 8 years of being VP.

When did ex-VPs become so valuable? Who decided that and why? John Nance Garner didn't get that kind of money, so what changed?

I suggest to you that what changed is that sometime in the last 50 years our economy secretly changed. Actually working for a living became less valued while access to money itself became the ultimate value. Being VP certainly gives you access to rich people, and when your public service is up, you can use that access to get paid handsomely for talking about whatever you feel like talking about.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
8. Here we go again. WHO CARES except supporters of candidates who are far behind Biden?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:09 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Vegas Roller

(704 posts)
9. Weak sauce
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:09 AM
Jun 2019

Matt Viser has too much free time on his hands. He spent months trying to nail which coffee was served in the Obama white house!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

emmaverybo

(8,144 posts)
103. "Weak sauce" I love it. Nt
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:25 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Bettie

(15,997 posts)
10. Biden isn't my first choice, but
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:11 AM
Jun 2019

FFS, we need to stop eating our own!

Every former VP and Pres. gets paid for speaking engagements. It isn't new and it isn't unusual.

No matter who we nominate, Trump will run the very same campaign he did in 2016, because he has NO other ideas. He'll change the names and tweak the insults, but it will be the same and we should be prepared for that.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

secondwind

(16,903 posts)
14. Hear, hear! Enough already!!!!!!
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:17 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
20. Books are fine, paid corporate speeches for monster bucks are a potential disaster
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:24 AM
Jun 2019

We should have learned that by now. If you’re going to run for public office again, just abstain from that. If not, go for it and run up the score as much as you can.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

mcar

(42,206 posts)
23. Why?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:26 AM
Jun 2019

Why are they a disaster? What is wrong with a world leader being paid for a speech?

It was a made up issue before; it's a made up issue now.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LanternWaste

(37,748 posts)
66. Simple branding rather than authenticity.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:44 AM
Jun 2019

We rationalize the simplistic as ethical, but at the end of the day, commercial branding is the most deciding factor in popularity contests.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

mcar

(42,206 posts)
83. What is inauthentic about giving a speech?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:36 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

betsuni

(25,122 posts)
93. Speeches are bad, but if you write a best-selling book, you can be a millionaire, too.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 05:38 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

mcar

(42,206 posts)
95. I can't keep up with the rules, betsuni
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 05:53 PM
Jun 2019

Writing books is authentic, giving a speech isn't?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

betsuni

(25,122 posts)
97. I know. When in doubt, ask: What Would Bernie Do?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:03 PM
Jun 2019

"Authentic" is another word with a new meaning that nobody except the members of that religion understands.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

betsuni

(25,122 posts)
94. What about books? A book is a speech you pay for and read.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 05:42 PM
Jun 2019

Oh wait. Bernie did that so it is authentic.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Bettie

(15,997 posts)
28. So, no one else
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:30 AM
Jun 2019

running has ever given a paid speech for a corporate group? Ever?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
29. Recently and at $150k-$200k a pop?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:31 AM
Jun 2019

I’d like to know.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Dr Hobbitstein

(6,568 posts)
56. That's not a lot of money for a political rock star.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:19 AM
Jun 2019

It’ll cost you at least $125k to book Queens of the Stone Age. $500k to book Foo Fighters. $150k for Jane’s Addiction (who haven’t even had a hit since the mid 90s). When he was alive, $1.2M to book Price. Jay-Z will run you $600k. Bruno Mars around $500k.

$125-200k for Biden? Pretty good deal, comparatively.

Time is money. And when you are in demand, you can charge top dollar for your time.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
65. Hey, Obama recently got $600k for a gig in Colombia
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:37 AM
Jun 2019

Pays for the chateau in France for a week and then some. That's what you do when you're not running for anything ever again.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Dr Hobbitstein

(6,568 posts)
92. Nah, it's what you do if you're in demand and you want to do it.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 04:19 PM
Jun 2019

There’s nothing nefarious about it. He is currently a private citizen, and can do as he pleases.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

LanternWaste

(37,748 posts)
68. If you'd like to know...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:47 AM
Jun 2019

I imagine there are tools at your disposal to easily access that information. But only if you'd sincerely like to know; otherwise, I can only imagine denying ourselves that information is a preventative cure to our narratives being weakened.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
69. Senators aren't allowed to collect speaking fees
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:53 AM
Jun 2019

Only travel gets reimbursed. Apart from the Senators running only O'Rourke and Inslee interest me. Let me know if you hear something about them.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
43. I'll bet my bottom dollar
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:46 AM
Jun 2019

Senator BS will be doing paid speeches too after leaving the senate.

He is already raking it in with books.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

TheFarseer

(9,308 posts)
82. No way, man
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:33 PM
Jun 2019

They’re going to have to carry him out of the Senate like Strom Thurmond.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
88. I don't think he will run in 2024
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 02:29 PM
Jun 2019

The speaking engagements give lots more dough and perks ... plus an ego boost.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Thekaspervote

(32,605 posts)
106. Sanders has already filed paper work to run for the senate as an independent in 2024
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 07:03 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
111. I don't think he will run
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:02 PM
Jun 2019

He will hit the lecture circuit and make money.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

MrsCoffee

(5,801 posts)
50. Obviously some have learned nothing.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:57 AM
Jun 2019

How did this line of attack work out last time?

How about abstaining from ridiculous hyperbole?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BannonsLiver

(16,161 posts)
75. You seem to be the only one worked up over it
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:35 AM
Jun 2019

But maybe if you click your feet together three times and wish real hard it’ll come true.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
16. I've heard people like to be paid for their work. Just rumors, of course.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:21 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
18. But what about Warren's speaking fees?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:24 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

shanny

(6,709 posts)
52. lol dude that's weak sauce
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:07 AM
Jun 2019

since Senators cannot be paid for speeches

whataboutism about...nothing

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
71. it's actually pretty potent sauce...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:56 AM
Jun 2019

since they can take speaking fees before becoming senator... and take money (lots of money) for other things like being an "expert witness."

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

shanny

(6,709 posts)
81. lol again
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:26 PM
Jun 2019

So you think it appropriate to stigmatize someone for being successful before being in public office...but not after?

you're a hoot, wyld, I'll give you that.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
84. lol... again
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 12:40 PM
Jun 2019

I don't think it's appropriate to stigmatize someone for being successful before being in public office OR after being in public office. The OP, a Warren supporter, obviously didn't realize Warren has taken money from people - including lobbyists - for her time.

Additionally, my initial comment was directed at the OP, who is a Warran supporter and was attempting to smear Biden. Unless YOU are the OP, it wasn't directed at you, the irony was lost on you, and you're not very good at this.

Better luck next time. And quit before you further embarrass yourself.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
102. 15 years ago before she entered politics?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:25 PM
Jun 2019

Whatever. Run with that.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
104. Are you denying Warren has taken cash from a lobbyist and as an "expert witness?"
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:45 PM
Jun 2019

Quick! Google it, get your spin in order, and report back.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

hedda_foil

(16,368 posts)
116. As a leading expert in bankruptcy laws and related legal matters, she was paid expert witness fees.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:05 PM
Jun 2019

Let's see what you've got on cash from a lobbyist and we'll see if there's an issue there.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
117. "we'll see if there's an issue there." - that's where the spin comes in
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:22 PM
Jun 2019

... as if YOU can make the determination of what's an issue and what isn't in comparison to Joe Biden's speaking fees.

So we already know she was paid $90,000 to be an expert witness in a class-action lawsuit against U.S. banks. At the time she did the work she was head of the Congressional Oversight Panel monitoring the $700 billion bank bailout.

According to WaPo, some ethics attorneys said her work created at least the appearance of a conflict of interest given her leverage over banks as head of the watchdog group.

In 2011 she had to amend her financial disclosure report to include $5,000+ from Aspen Publisher's group, a lobbying firm lobbying for Sallie Mae.

She was also paid $10,000 by the same firm for "educational programs."

Her FEC filings show several other payments from lobbyists since 2012 and 2017.


There aren't issues to me just as a paid speech from Biden isn't. Are either issues to you?





If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to BeyondGeography (Original post)

 

George II

(67,782 posts)
24. So how do you feel about candidates who give "free" speeches to an auditorium full of...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:26 AM
Jun 2019

....people who paid to hear them, and on their way out they're handed a "free" book written by the speaker, who receives royalties and advances based on sales of the book?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
27. Who are they potentially beholden to as a result of that?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:29 AM
Jun 2019

Book buyers?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
30. It's just another form of getting "paid" for speeches, which seems to be the issue here.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:33 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
31. Who is paying is the issue
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:35 AM
Jun 2019

$200k for speaking at a health care conference sponsored by JP Morgan compared with individual Bernie fans spending 20 bucks for a book. This needs to be said?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
39. Sadly people are making this an issue.....
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:38 AM
Jun 2019

....one that except for one other candidate in the past has never been an issue before.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

marylandblue

(12,344 posts)
57. Bernie's conference sponsor paid for the books and gave them out for free
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:20 AM
Jun 2019

at least that's my understanding. No different than getting to speak directly really except there's a book passed around to hide what you are really being paid for.

It's a common practice and not illegal, but I think it should not be legal.

Also I think Senators should be paid a lot more than they are while other sources of income are restricted

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Vegas Roller

(704 posts)
59. That is different. That is a religious revival
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:23 AM
Jun 2019

which makes devotees get in touch with their inner spirituality and exclude all thoughts from their minds except devotion for the speaker as they bow in faith and unquestioningly believe every word uttered by said speaker.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Nanjeanne

(4,877 posts)
26. Has he released his taxes yet? I remember that's very important.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:29 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

PatSeg

(46,773 posts)
38. Only 18?!?!
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:37 AM
Jun 2019

What is he hiding?!?!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Nanjeanne

(4,877 posts)
48. Sorry. I should have said ones since he was out of office.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:55 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
35. He's released 18 years of tax returns without prodding. The last three (when out of office)....
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:36 AM
Jun 2019

....will probably be released soon. He clearly has no qualms about releasing them, and there was nothing onerous contained in those 18 years.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

MrsCoffee

(5,801 posts)
67. Been asked and answered repeatedly.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:46 AM
Jun 2019

One politician has made his returns available for decades.

Another bullshitted Americans for years saying he was going to release them and didn't.

Yes, it's very important.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BannonsLiver

(16,161 posts)
76. LOL I wouldn't go down that path
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:37 AM
Jun 2019

You’ll embarrass yourself.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

PatSeg

(46,773 posts)
33. Almost everyone
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:35 AM
Jun 2019

makes more money when they leave the White House. There is nothing unusual about this. As best I can recall, Joe never used his public position for money while he was in office.

This sounds too much like a replay of 2016 when Hillary was repeatedly attacked for her paid speeches.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Botany

(70,281 posts)
36. Good God in Butter
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:36 AM
Jun 2019

Why are we doing the other side's work?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Peacetrain

(22,836 posts)
42. Amen to that!!
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:46 AM
Jun 2019

Could not have said it better

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Scoopster

(423 posts)
37. Not a BFD.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:36 AM
Jun 2019

It's not his income that matters, but how he fights to help people who are less fortunate than he is.

Also, I'd rather choose someone who's actually successful, instead of the repeatedly certified business failure we have now.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

dreamland

(964 posts)
40. I hate jealous headlines
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:39 AM
Jun 2019

Joe is living the American dream, so is Sanders. What does it matter that they made millions. What matters more to me is that they were once middle income e people and who can remember their roots. They were not born with everything handed to them. They knew suffering and they know how life is not a bailout. So if someone charges for speeches and someone is willing to pay to listen , how different is that from paying for a $100 concert ticket?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

marylandblue

(12,344 posts)
85. Not picking on Biden or Sanders because it's all legal and common practice, but
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:17 PM
Jun 2019

the fact that they can command such large fees for speaking or write automatic bestsellers is a symptom of a social problem - the making of our politicians into celebrities, and as we've seen from Reagan to Trump, making our celebrities into politicians. Entertainment and politics have merged.

The reward for a distinguished career in public service is no longer the mere gratitude of the masses and a nice retirement, but an open invitation from the wealthy elite to join their ranks. This problem has nothing to do with Biden, but it says a lot about the structure of our society.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

quickesst

(6,280 posts)
44. Just like all the other ridiculous bullshit....
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:50 AM
Jun 2019

.... that Biden has been accused of since he entered the race, this too will end the same way..... Crickets. Take the latest attack. Last week you couldn't turn around without running into a post accusing Joe of "praising" a segregationist, which of course turned out to be a blatant lie. After that was proven, and the polls indicated he had not lost any support, and as a matter of fact, had actually gained more support, you can scroll the latest threads and see for oneself those threads have virtually disappeared. It's as if someone suddenly turned on a light in the middle of the night. Even the media who was running with this crap full bore has virtually come to a screeching halt. This will end up in the scrapheap, but I predict it will get there much sooner then most.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Autumn

(44,744 posts)
45. Imagine the horror had he written a book. And bought a lake house.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:51 AM
Jun 2019

Last edited Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:59 AM - Edit history (1)

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Watchfoxheadexplodes

(3,496 posts)
46. Politicians are rich? Who in the HELL knew?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:53 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Clarity2

(1,009 posts)
49. Didn't Trump say
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:56 AM
Jun 2019

we'd take down our own candidates with our own circular firing squad? It's the only thing he's been right about.

Big deal. I have no problem with any politician making money from speeches. As long as they're not making
their money in illegal ways, like from....Russia. Or sending their money to offshore accounts. Jeez, celebs make
millions on movies and tv series. Athletes also make millions during their career. We don't always think it's justified,
but it's an honest days work at least. Try to look at it that way, rather than comparing it to the average middle class salary.
And if he's making speeches at corporations we don't necessarily agree with, he is no doubt trying to flip the script and
make them see things in a different way. Why not get paid for it in the process?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

OnDoutside

(19,906 posts)
51. Should be fun if the usual suspects have a go at millionaire dem
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 09:57 AM
Jun 2019

candidates !

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

MineralMan

(146,189 posts)
53. Hillary's Speeches, Redux.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:11 AM
Jun 2019

This is just too damned funny. At this time in 2015, we were being regaled by accounts of how Hillary Clinton was parlaying her celebrity by making expensive speeches and writing books, too.

Supporters of another candidate used stories about that to try to pin a label on her.

Now, we're seeing the same tired nonsense directed at Joe Biden.

Fuck that shit!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

democratisphere

(17,235 posts)
55. Some people write books and become rich. Some people give
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:12 AM
Jun 2019

great speeches and get rich. It is interesting to see the number of Democrats attempting to take down the front runner of the Democratic Party. We have seen this before in 2016 and it looks like we are headed for a repeat in 2020. Remember, be careful what you wish for........

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

SouthernProgressive

(1,810 posts)
58. Dear God. Not the right wing "release the speeches" bit.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:21 AM
Jun 2019

There is no depth too low. Sick right wing smear.

In a bit of irony, considering the content of the op, I appreciate the transparency.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

BeyondGeography

(39,276 posts)
60. Some people obviously don't recognize a lament when they see one
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:25 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

SouthernProgressive

(1,810 posts)
61. Your mourning didn't go unnoticed. NT
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:26 AM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

democratisphere

(17,235 posts)
64. Quit lamenting and back the absolute most qualified Presidential candidate the Democrats have.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:30 AM
Jun 2019

Joe Biden.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
62. Another dud .. about to fail
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:27 AM
Jun 2019

This will not sway a single Biden voter.

However, Biden voters' anger at the divisive campaign of Senator BS increases exponentially with each attempt that either fails to hit the target or fails to explode.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Polly Hennessey

(6,745 posts)
70. Oh, great.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 10:54 AM
Jun 2019

Now we are after him because he makes a living- a good one. Next up: Joe Biden goes to the bathroom. How dare he admit to that. 🤔

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

tishaLA

(14,176 posts)
72. What? "although in some of those cases he was reimbursed for travel expenses"?
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:03 AM
Jun 2019

I'd consider it extraordinary if a speaker flew somewhere and *wasn't* reimbursed for travel expenses.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

blue neen

(12,306 posts)
73. Matt Vizer. Every article this guy writes is critical of Joe Biden.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:24 AM
Jun 2019

We really shouldn't be using him as a source on DU.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/matt-viser/?utm_term=.0ef923a60c7f

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BannonsLiver

(16,161 posts)
74. Release the transcripts
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:33 AM
Jun 2019

Remind me where I’ve heard that demand before. Oh, that’s right, 3 years ago from people trying to tear down Hillary. The Hillaryization of Biden continues.

Btw, good for Joe for making some scrilla.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Afromania

(2,767 posts)
77. They need to be more concerned with what the current "president" is doing to earn money.
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:39 AM
Jun 2019

This snuff job they are trying to pull on Biden is becoming obvious. Particularly with news of people being tired of trump. At this point I think they know Biden will runaway with it if he's nominated. The media wants another dog and pony show.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

emulatorloo

(43,979 posts)
79. Write something good about Elizabeth Warren, avoid recycled character assasination on other
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 11:59 AM
Jun 2019

candidates. We aren’t doing baseless smears this yeat

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

peggysue2

(10,811 posts)
86. We have the Squatter-in-Chief involved in a grifter bonanza and . . .
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 01:28 PM
Jun 2019

Democrats are going to scream about speaking fees? From Biden or anyone else. Really? After everything that went down in 2016??

Since when was doing Republican work a good strategy going into a presidential election, an election that will determine the course of our lives and those of our kids?

Get a frigging grip! This is a nothingburger wrapped up like a newz story. Manufactured to create buzz and wishful damage. Nothing more.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Hekate

(90,189 posts)
89. How dare he? All True Dems wear sackcloth and go barefoot from one place to another...
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 03:56 PM
Jun 2019

Oh please.

And FFS, referencing Trump's smears as to why Democrats should ditch another Democrat? Surely you can do better.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

OhZone

(3,212 posts)
91. I know a few homeless people who we could nominate -
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 04:18 PM
Jun 2019

including an old friend from college who because schizophrenic after having her second child.

So sad.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

betsuni

(25,122 posts)
96. "It must be a fantastic speech, a brilliant speech which you would want to share with the American
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 05:57 PM
Jun 2019

people. It must be Shakespearean!" Bernie Sanders

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

JI7

(89,172 posts)
99. it's mostly resentful white men who have a problem with this
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:05 PM
Jun 2019

and usually when it's women and minorities who get paid.

since joe is a white man it won't be much of an issue.

and if you want to go by what Republicans will do that's like saying we shouldn't support Warren becsuse they will bring up the whole native American thing.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

UniteFightBack

(8,231 posts)
100. Do we blame rump or our own parties purity police ? Huh?????? nt
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:16 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

emmaverybo

(8,144 posts)
101. Good. He was one of the poorest senator's at the time he entered and for some time after. nt
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:23 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

thegoose

(3,115 posts)
105. And time to keep it in perspective
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 06:54 PM
Jun 2019

Personalities sign with speaking agencies who negotiate the best deals for their clients. They don't just sit there and demand to be paid a fortune.

Anyhow, I'd rather see people with experience, intelligence and something real to offer than the Kartrashians who get paid equal amounts of money just to show up at a fucking "party" with their surgery-enhanced breasts and enormously inflated asses.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

KT2000

(20,544 posts)
109. the point is he didn't get wealthy
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 07:51 PM
Jun 2019

while serving as senator or VP. I don't think there are limitations on income for private citizens. With his background and experience he would be a highly paid speaker.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,347 posts)
110. Never mind about this...I think you should demand the emails!!!
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 07:58 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NYMinute

(3,256 posts)
113. Poor David Sirota
Tue Jun 25, 2019, 08:27 PM
Jun 2019

still trying desperately

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

wyldwolf

(43,865 posts)
118. he's such a tool.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:23 PM
Jun 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Fla Dem

(23,342 posts)
119. This sounds like the same attacks the Sander's backers hurled at HRC.
Wed Jun 26, 2019, 04:36 PM
Jun 2019

So what? They did their time in government, are they supposed to go around in sackcloth and ashes for the rest of their lives?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
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