Joe Biden Talks 2016: ‘I Just Don’t Know’

[DonViejo]

Patricia Murphy

The vice president, still grieving his son Beau, addressed speculation for the first time about his intentions to join the 2016 presidential race.

Vice President Joe Biden addressed the speculation for the first time Thursday night about whether he'll get into the 2016 presidential race. But instead of an enthusiastic yes, or a politician’s non-answer, Biden spoke with the raw honesty of a still-grieving father.

“The most relevant fact is whether my family and I have the emotional energy to run,” Biden said, adding that he has no set timeline for himself to make a decision.

Biden’s eldest son, Beau Biden, died of cancer in May. His first wife and young daughter were killed in a car accident in 1972.

Biden said that the much-discussed mechanics of a potential presidential campaign, including fundraising, timing, and logistics, are playing no role in his decision-making process. “The factor is, ‘Can I do it? Can my family?’ The honest-to-God answer is, I just don't know.”

After a pause, he turned to his friend and host, former ambassador Stuart Eizenstat, and said, “But I have to be honest with you and everyone who’s come to me. I can’t look you straight in the eye and say now I know I can do it.”

-snip-

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/09/04/joe-biden-talks-2016-i-just-don-t-know.html

[redstatebluegirl]

1. I saw his statement and he looked so very sad.

Vice President Biden has always been so upbeat and hopeful. He looked like what he is, a grieving father who can't take in the loss of his son. It takes a lot of energy to run for President and it takes even more to grieve the type of loss he has just experienced. I don't know that I would have voted for him, but I am truly in his corner. I hope he does what is best for him and his family. His grandkids need Grandpa right now.

[BlueCaliDem]

2. Important to note, he hasn't said he ISN'T running. eom

[monmouth4]

3. He never mentions that wife Jill is against his running....n/t

[elleng]

4. and I suspect this is the #1 'NO' reason.

He's not likely to state that, at this point; surely won't blame her, who's been through so much with him.

[bigtree]

5. sounds like he's leaning to not running

...hard to walk back what he said about the 'emotional' state of his family.

[bigwillq]

6. If he gets into the race, fine

That's his right, and I will be cool with it.

BUT--I hope he does not run. Eight years was enough, imo. I am tired of recycled candidates.

[AgingAmerican]

7. He is bowing out gracefully

The timing of losing his son makes this almost impossible for him. I love his honesty.