Former President Joe Biden may have left the White House in January 2025, but according to his latest remarks in California, he has by no means left the world stage. Speaking to a packed audience of human resources professionals in San Diego, Biden revealed that European leaders continue to call him for guidance even as the United States navigates a new political chapter under President Donald Trump.

The comments offered a rare glimpse into Biden’s post-presidency life: one that mixes personal reflection, continued political engagement, and a focus on family. For many observers, the speech highlighted both the enduring influence Biden believes he carries abroad and the fast-changing dynamics of American politics at home.

A Speech to 20,000 HR Professionals

Biden addressed the Society for Human Resource Management, one of the largest gatherings of HR professionals in the world. Roughly 20,000 attendees were in the audience for the one-hour keynote address, during which the 82-year-old reflected on his presidency, his ongoing connections with world leaders, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

The former president spoke openly about his health, referencing the aggressive form of prostate cancer he disclosed earlier in May. Despite that challenge, Biden’s energy on stage impressed many in attendance. He admitted that while he no longer carries the official responsibilities of office, he remains deeply engaged in global affairs.

“How can you just walk away?” Biden asked rhetorically. “I stayed engaged because I really cared about what I was doing. Many things I worked so hard on, things I thought changed the country, are changing so rapidly.”

Although he no longer plays a public role in government, Biden admitted that private conversations with world leaders are frequent. “I’m getting calls—I’m not going to go into it, I can’t—from a number of European leaders asking me to get engaged. I’m not, but I’m giving advice. Because things are different.”

The NATO Question

One of the most striking parts of Biden’s speech centered on NATO, the military alliance that has been at the heart of transatlantic security for decades. Biden described the alliance as being in “shambles” when he assumed the presidency in 2021, before claiming that his administration worked to expand and strengthen it.

While he did not mention Donald Trump by name during his remarks, the contrast was clear. Biden emphasized that NATO’s survival and relevance depended on steady leadership. “I often ask the question, if America doesn’t lead the world, who can? Mistakes today have significantly greater consequences than they did 50 years ago.”

His comments came just weeks after President Trump attended a NATO summit in the Netherlands, where member nations agreed to a historic pledge to raise defense spending to five percent of GDP over the next decade. Trump hailed the outcome as a “big win” for America, while critics questioned the sustainability of the demand.

A Divided Narrative

The differing narratives of Biden and Trump underscore the split in how each leader frames America’s role in the world. For Biden, the emphasis lies on coalition-building and collective security, with NATO seen as an anchor of stability. For Trump, the focus is on burden-sharing and ensuring allies contribute more financially to defense.

Following Biden’s speech, the White House released a statement through spokesperson Anna Kelly dismissing the idea that foreign leaders were calling Biden for advice. “Absolutely no one is calling Joe Biden for advice because his foreign policy left America weaker than ever before. Thanks to President Trump, NATO allies have made a historic five percent defense spending pledge, Iran’s nuclear capabilities are addressed, and our country’s standing on the world stage is restored.”

The sharp statement reflects the political tensions of the moment: a former president who still claims influence, and a sitting president eager to define the new era on his own terms.

Life Beyond the White House

While Biden remains engaged with politics, he is also leaning into the personal joys of post-presidency. During his San Diego visit, attendees spotted him flying coach, accompanied by Secret Service detail. After the speech, he headed to Los Angeles to meet his first great-grandson.

“I have the advantage of being able to engage in their lives, help where I can,” Biden said about his family. “Every single day I contact every single one of my grandchildren.”

His comments resonated with many in the audience, offering a more personal side to a figure often defined by policy and politics. When asked how he would like to be remembered, Biden replied simply: “Being a good father.”

Writing the Next Chapter

Another revelation from Biden’s appearance was his plan to write another memoir. The former president said he is working on a 500-page book that will cover his most recent four years in office. “Every president is expected to write a memoir,” he explained. “It’s not a criticism, it’s an observation. Most take between three and six years to get it done.”

Biden hinted that the book would not just be a record of events, but also a reflection on how those events shaped the world. “They want me to just focus on the four years and talk about what happened and how it impacted the world… if it did.”

For Biden, the memoir represents a chance to cement his version of history and ensure that his perspective is included in the national conversation.

Between Past and Present

In many ways, Biden’s speech highlighted the tension between past leadership and present politics. His reflections carried the weight of someone who feels unfinished business, someone who believes that the work of coalition-building and diplomacy is not yet complete.

At the same time, his comments about family and writing suggest a man increasingly at peace with a supporting role. No longer at the center of global power, Biden appears comfortable offering guidance from the sidelines while enjoying the personal freedoms that come with private life.

The Bigger Question

Perhaps the most significant takeaway from Biden’s remarks was his recurring question: if America does not lead, who will? In an era of shifting alliances, growing global competition, and rapid technological change, the answer to that question may determine the course of international politics in the coming decades.

Biden’s belief is that American leadership—despite its challenges, controversies, and criticisms—remains essential. Whether or not he is right, the fact that world leaders still reach out to him, if his account is accurate, suggests that his voice still carries weight.

Conclusion: Influence After Office

Joe Biden’s San Diego address provided insight into the paradox of post-presidential life. He is no longer commander-in-chief, but his words continue to attract attention. He is officially retired from public office, yet he insists that his phone keeps ringing with calls from abroad.

Whether his claims of continued influence are universally accepted or dismissed by political rivals, one fact remains: Biden still sees himself as part of the ongoing story of America’s role in the world. His memoir, his reflections, and his family life all mark the next chapter of a career that has spanned half a century.

As the Trump administration defines its own course, Biden’s presence lingers in the background—a reminder of the choices America has made, and the voices that continue to shape the debate even outside the halls of power.

Sources

• Reuters – Biden says European leaders still call him for advice

• BBC – Joe Biden reveals world leaders seek his counsel post-presidency

• Al Jazeera – Biden discusses NATO, memoir, and family life in San Diego speech