Joe Biden Says He’s Still Advising World Leaders — But Is Anyone Still Listening?
Even after stepping down under a cloud of criticism and declining approval, former President Joe Biden insists his influence hasn’t vanished. In an unexpected moment during a recent appearance in San Diego, the 46th president claimed he’s still being quietly consulted by European leaders and U.S. lawmakers alike—comments that have stirred both curiosity and skepticism.
“They’re Still Calling Me,” Says Biden
Speaking at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) convention, Biden offered a glimpse into what he says is his ongoing role behind the scenes. In a conversation with SHRM President Johnny Taylor, Biden revealed that he continues to receive outreach from heads of state and members of Congress.
“I’m getting calls—I’m not going to get into it, I can’t—from a number of European leaders asking me to get engaged,” Biden said. “I’m not getting involved, but I’m giving advice. Because things are different now.”
He emphasized that while he isn’t returning to official diplomacy, he’s willing to offer guidance when asked. Biden added that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have continued to reach out, not because they think he has all the answers, but to “bounce things off” of him.
The Corvette Comment — and a Moment of Mixed Signals
In a clip that quickly circulated on social media, Biden appeared animated as he spoke about global leadership, saying:
“If America doesn’t lead the world, who can? No, not a joke. Not because of power—but who can put it together?”
He then pivoted, somewhat abruptly, to a lighthearted remark about driving his 1967 Corvette—an attempt at humor that left some attendees amused, others confused.
Critics Aren’t Convinced
While Biden’s comments drew applause from parts of the San Diego audience, they also reignited familiar criticisms. Opponents pointed to the long list of controversies that followed him out of office:
Inflation that surged to multi-decade highs
Record gas prices and persistent economic unease
Border security concerns and the impeachment of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
The Hunter Biden legal saga and accusations of political shielding
A report from ICE revealing major lapses in vetting sponsors for migrant children
Add to that the allegations of autopen-signed pardons and internal party tensions, and it’s easy to see why many political observers find Biden’s claim of ongoing influence difficult to reconcile with his final year in office.
Legacy or Relevance?
Supporters argue that Biden’s decades-long relationships with foreign leaders, his deep institutional knowledge, and a reputation for moderation may explain why he’s still viewed as a resource—even outside the Oval Office.
Former presidents have long played quiet advisory roles after leaving office, especially when trust has already been established.
📺 And now, your moment of zen. Some Q&A with @JoeBiden from today’s #SHRM25 conference in San Diego. pic.twitter.com/AGtN47aau9
— Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) July 2, 2025
However, critics contend that this is less about enduring statesmanship and more about trying to stay visible amid a shifting political landscape.
With many Democrats eager to move beyond the Biden era, and his Republican opponents framing him as the embodiment of decline, his comments may be seen as an attempt to protect his legacy rather than a reflection of real influence.
Conclusion
Joe Biden’s recent claim that he remains a sought-after voice among global and political leaders adds another chapter to the evolving narrative of his post-presidency.
Whether those calls represent genuine political consultation or polite nods to a man who once held immense power remains unclear.
What is clear, though, is that Biden isn’t ready to fade into the background. Whether acting as a quiet advisor or simply keeping his place in the conversation, he’s signaling that he still sees himself as part of the leadership fabric—even if others are still deciding whether to take his calls seriously.