President Joe Biden’s presidential library project is facing major financial trouble, as traditional Democrat donors grow hesitant or refuse to contribute. The library, expected to be built in Delaware, is already lagging in fundraising. Internal party divisions, legacy concerns, and donor fatigue are contributing to the reluctance.
The Biden Foundation established a 13-member board to oversee the library’s development. The board includes key Biden allies such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, longtime advisor Steve Ricchetti, and former U.S. Chief of Protocol Rufus Gifford. Despite the high-profile appointments, the project has failed to attract the expected wave of financial support.
Major Democrat funders have expressed doubts about the library’s viability. Concerns stem from Biden’s declining approval in his final year, compounded by repeated questions surrounding his mental and physical condition during the 2024 election cycle. The Democratic Party’s poor performance in that election further fractured enthusiasm.
John Morgan, a personal injury attorney and prominent Democrat fundraiser, revealed that he requested an $800,000 refund after learning the funds he raised for Biden were allegedly redirected to support Kamala Harris. Morgan stated, “I told them I wanted a refund. I’m not part of this.” The dispute highlights growing disillusionment within the donor base.
Corporate donors have also stayed away, citing political risk and uncertainty about how the library would represent Biden’s controversial presidency. Unlike past presidents, Biden does not enjoy a strong grassroots fundraising base, nor does he generate widespread enthusiasm from institutional supporters.
With money drying up, the scope and timeline of the library are now in question. If sufficient funds aren’t raised soon, the Biden Foundation may be forced to scale back or delay the project indefinitely. The struggle reflects deeper tensions inside the Democratic Party over Biden’s leadership and the legacy he leaves behind.
