Obama’s Best Use of VP-elect Biden?
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/11/13/art.obama.biden.b.gi.jpg caption=" How should Obama make the best use of Biden?"]
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Today we're going to spend a couple of minutes talking about the vice presidential candidate who actually won the election, Joe Biden. Remember him?
After 9-11, one of the first things President Bush did was find a secure, undisclosed location in which to store his Vice President, Dick Cheney. Once hidden away, Cheney could begin pulling the strings for the new administration. Secret energy meetings with that fun bunch from Enron, drawing up plans to invade Iraq as well as the lies they would need to cover it, figuring out how to operate the most secretive administration in history without being accountable to anyone. He had his assignment clearly defined right from the start.
It's always been a bit of a problem figuring out what to do with the vice president. As long as the president's alive, his official job description is limited. Break the ties in the Senate, sit behind the congressional leaders during the State of the Union address, and try to look interested when out in public.
Julian Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University says Biden could best be put to use soothing a Democratic Congress that's had a tense relationship with the Executive Branch in recent years. He believes Biden should be "a point man on Capitol Hill to help twist arms, make arguments and build voting coalitions."
Here’s my question to you: How should Barack Obama make the best use of Vice President-elect Joe Biden?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Christine from New York writes:
I think it would be great if Barack Obama broke unprecedented ground and really made the vice presidency worth more than the proverbial "bucket of warm spit." Joe Biden has such a Class-A record in matters that affect the well-being of real people in real circumstances, that wouldn't it wonderful if a whole new domestic recovery project were created for him to develop?
Talar from Sacramento, California writes:
Is there any way that Biden can be V.P. as well as Secretary of State? That would be the best use of him instead of just attending funerals and breaking ties in the Senate. Put him to work and use his expertise in foreign policy. We need it!
Robert from Louisville, Kentucky writes:
The Vice President spot can be a good bully pulpit too. Joe Biden should fill his calendar with speeches driving the Obama agenda.
Jay from Belmont, California writes:
Biden should move into Cheney's residence as quickly as possible and get rid of all the water-boarding paraphernalia in the basement dungeon. That should help with our image around the world.
John from Dalton, Georgia writes:
Joe Biden can take shifts with Barack Obama reading through the budget line by line.
Bob from Morristown, New Jersey writes:
Biden should be the firefighter-in-chief. He should handle all of the tactical issues that come to keep them from distracting Obama from the critical strategic issues he must hone in on like a laser.
Wally from Las Vegas, Nevada writes:
Stand him up at the door way of the White House, dressed up like one of those Indians they used to have at cigar stores (and I wonder why my comments are never read on the air ).
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Foreign Policy – we have a lot of burned bridges to re-build.
Isn't it to deal with all the nut jobs around the world...ooops..i meant to say foreign policy..
Foreign policy will be the best use. I think Obama does not have enough knowledge about foreign policy. Biden can help a lot in this area.
Pullman, Washington state
To take over as President in 2010 when Obama is removed.
Jack CArlson
Seattle WA
President elect Obama and VP elect Biden have the intelligence and positive relationship that will enable them to figure that out without the endless speculation and "advice" the pundits and disgruntled republicans like to dish out.
Obama didn't listen to all the pundits "advice" and forecasts about not being able to win Hillary voters, or to turn red states blue or win this voter or that voter nor the doom and gloom forecast of the nonexistant Bradley effect and he managed a landslide without it.
Foreign policy with an emphasis on extricating us from Iraq ASAP.
Obviously he cannot let the VP control the presidency as Bush has done. Obama is much to smart for that. I think Joe should work directly with the Secretary of State to re-establish the relations with other countries that Bush has nearly destroyed.
Just do what Sarah Palin thinks the VP should do like,
make laws and just tidy up around the Senate Chambers.
You betcha!
Hi Jack.
I think President-elect Obama should take full advantage of VP-elect Biden's considerable experience by using him as a way of regaining the respect of the rest of the world. The current administration has caused enormous damage to the way we in Europe and elsewhere look at your great nation, and while the wonderful results from Nov. 4th did a lot to improve the view of America, it will take some state visits by both Obama and Biden to re-establish warm relations. Joe Biden is very well respected here in Europe, and he's already being seen as a good VP choice simply because he's not Sarah Palin. Thank heaven for small mercies!
I see two roles for Biden. One, a senior foreign policy advisor to the President. Biden knows many world leaders and can help inform Obama on that front. Second, liaison to the Senate. Biden is well respected with both parties in the Senate and could help to make the case for the President's legislative agenda with his former colleagues.
Two ways, Jack.
1) Repairing our foreign relationships. We are going to need all the international cooperation we can get in resolving our part of the global economic meltdown.
2) As a watchdog on the Hill. Biden has been there long enough to know where the skeletons are hidden, and shouldn't be afraid to air them in public if recalcitrant Congressional members of either party don't look beyond partisan politics as usual and get off their duffs. We the public are tired of their endless bickering, their pork politics, and their incompetence.
Biden's uses are numerous and will not be relegated to the old V.P. role of window dressing.
His 3 principle uses from the start should be, foreign policy as a liaison between Obama,Secretary of State, and Congress. As the front man for future Supreme Court nominations. And to undo, or redo, the credit card laws and bankruptcy laws he had a large hand in bungling which is having such an adverse affect on the middle class.
First, engage him in the "inner circle" and make him part of economic and foreign policy discussion. He's a pretty sharp guy and has a lot to offer. Secondly, send him in for a little more presense then the Sec of State. The Sec of State should lay the groundwork for higher level meetings with some of these countries we have problems with. Joe B. is the next step. Don't be afraid to have him as "the stand-in". Third, have him available to go glad hand buddies in the Senate when needed. Never hurts when there's a close vote! Finally, all the ceremony that the VP usually attends: Funerals, etc.
Invite him to the Oval Office and then tell him to go sit in the corner.
As a McCain voter, I never-the-less like what I see in Joe Biden. He seems to retain a connection with his roots from a working class background plus he has good experience. He should be valuable in foreign policy areas. Also, Obama will need someone to help drive/oversee initiatives in job ceration through infrastructure and energy. Biden may be a good fit for thse areas.
Chatham, VA
Advisor and trouble shooter. As reguards "foriegn policy", President-elect Obama might consider "re-thinking" the U.S.'s policies in every section of the world. (The policies that we have been following for the last 50 – 60 years haven't been all that successful. If anything, our standing has become increasingly deminished.)
Foreign policy. Sen. Obama has zero experience...he will need help. However, Sen. Biden will need to appoint someone to do the negotiating because he will not be able to keep his mouth shut.
Seven words: Foreign policy abroad and muzzle at home.
Biden should be working closely with Al Gore to mobilize the energy transition team. Because Biden can actually go into the sunlight without bursting into flames, unlike Dick Cheney, he should get more acomplished in one month than Cheney accomplished in his entire lifetime.
To me Biden has done every thing he can to help Obama to win the election. If this place wasn't economic danger I would let him sit back and enjoy the ride. However since it isnt, Biden should just be a strong advisor, determined negotiater, and use his experience to guide Obama. If experience was what everyone was worried about for Obama Biden should just use his to fuel this. If there was any other use to being a VP in this time I wouldnt know. I may be 12 but i know how to be a number 2.
Jack,
Like many have said, foreign policies, but he can best be used to unite what is obvious a divided country.
Daniel Ambrose,
Atlanta, GA
Vice President-elect Biden should be assigned to be President Obama's point-person in the Senate. Biden's experience as a Senator since 1973, his knowledge of all the players Senate rules, his role as the Presiding Official and his temperament all make him perfect for this role. Obama needs a respected experienced representative to promptly push his legislative initiatives through the Senate. Biden is the one insider who can build a progressive consensus on both domestic policy initiatives as well as foreign policy matters.
Obama has thus far proven he is a brilliant strategist so however he uses Biden's talents will be for the best of the country.
Cheney will be a hard act to follow, but I think Obama should use Biden to create secret energy policies, support Halliburton Iraq, mumble obscenities at fellow politicians, and shoot friends in the face with birdshot.
Jack , Biden can be a real asset to Obama. I don't think Obama would have picked him , if he did not think that. Use him to help Obama with foreign policy decisions.
Let Joe the VP start pulling together a coherent foreign policy that's been absent the past 8 years.
State funerals, ribbon cuttings, maybe a tie-breaking vote or two in the Senate. Other than that I think he needs to remain silent.
Jack,
It would be in President-elect Obama's best interest if he would keep VP-elect Joe Biden in the loop in dealing with foreign policies and foreign leaders. VP-elect Joe Biden is a very smart man and should be placed in an area where his expertise can shine and work for the betterment of this great country.
He should continue to do with him what he did during the campaign. Keep Biden in hiding.
Jack,
Because Joe Biden is such a gaffe machine, I think Obama should put him front and center as often as possible. Maybe Joe can host 'The Tonight Show'?
Biden's strong point is Foreign Policy, however, Obama needs to make sure that Biden doesn't say things off the cuff that would put our country in some kind of agreement that Obama will not favor. We all know Biden shoots his mouth off way too much and tends to overstep his boundaries.
He should represent the Obama agenda to the Senate and be part of the foreign policy advisory team. Some "welcome us back" visit to "former" allies would be a good idea, as well.
He could use Joe Biden to research all the laws broken under the Constitution by Bush & Co., for future court proceedings, to finally put these guys where they belong, behind bars.
Biden has extensive foreign relations experience. He should use him to repair the damage Bush has done to our relations with other countries.
I have to agree with most on this blog, it has to be foreign policy, a lot of bridges to be rebuilt and confidence to be restored. However, I have every faith in Obama and Biden to achieve just that, which without doubt will make the world a better place to live in again; until the next bunch of idiots raise their heads that is.
Martyn, Fort Lauderdale.
Building a working bi-partisan coalition in Congress so hopefully Congress can get something good done for America for a change!
He should be used to help forcefully push Obama's agenda forward. Obama has a lot of messes to clean up, and can't be everywhere at once.
Jack: He should utilize VP Biden in ever venue where he needs assistance....Foreign Policy is Biden's greatest strength-that's a start for Obama.
Just like on the trail- split the responsibility. Obama takes on the economy with Biden's advice and then Biden takes on international policy with Obama's advice and oversight. Both will be under the watchful eye of each others decisions along with the American's voices guiding the US to a new era strength and pride thru-out the world. Truly a government of the people's voice.
Joe Biden is a true statesman. He has great knowledge of the Senate, its rules, and the players. He is well respected and can repair a badly broken foreign policy. Obama was wise to choose him as his running mate, and probably knew at the time what an asset he would be to his campaign and to his administration. Besides, he's just about the cutest thing I ever did see.
Joe Biden is going to be an asset in so many ways.
Barack Obama can and will use his knowledge in foreign affairs.
He will take advantage of his VP's respect and experience with
the Senate and Senators.
And they will both draw on their ability to know and relate to
middle class America in making their decisions.
Joe Biden is a very valuable resource. President-elect Obama should use him. He should be in in a position where his acerbic tongue, quick mind and creative metaphor's can be used to lash wayward Democrats into a lock step with the president.
He should discuss foregin policy with Biden, but allow the Sectretary of State to implement. He should keep him in the inner circle and listen to him on all subjects, The VP needs to be on top of everything just in case.
He should also use him as informal laison with Congress.
I'm with Annie, Atlanta's "He could use Joe Biden to research all the laws broken under the Constitution by Bush & Co., for future court proceedings, to finally put these guys where they belong, behind bars."
he should be Barack's Laventry Beria.
Jack–
Biden is great out front. He says what he means even if it isn't always "politically" correct. I think that he can probably do just about anything that President Obama wants him to. I think that they'll be a great team.
Troy, Ohio
I don't care just as long as he is not running the country like Dick has done.
Joe Biden's knowledge in Foriegn Affairs will be the greatest asset to the Obama Administration.
I also like that Biden, like Obama is for the middle class....the working class......I think they will work off of each other in a very possitive way to fix the broken.....almost obsolete, middle class.
Joe Biden's Son will deploy to Iraq before Thanksgiving.....let us all keep his Son and all our beloved Troops in our prayers.
Hold on Troops....change is coming and you are all coming home soon.
VP elect Biden should be used in foreign affairs and especially as a Goodwill Ambassador world wide to restore US reputation and image. Biden has been around a long time and has many connections. President elect Obama needs to use these connections to accomplish goals he has set for his administration. Let's hope that this political combination will make our world a better place for all to live.
The issues facing the Obama administration will demand intense and comprehensive scrutiny and salesmanship in congress. Joe Biden's knowledge of the senate will prove valuable in helping Obama navigate his proposals through both houses. Biden's foreign policy experitse will come in handy as much repair to our world reputation needs to be made and diplomacy will be a major part of Obama's foriegn relations strategy.
use biden's knowledge of foreign policy,he his one of the most knowledgeable people in congress on that subject.to not use his knowledge on foreign policy would be a big mistake
Joe's expertise also includes representing the many banks and holding companies incorporated in Delaware. Now that he no longer is a senator and beholden to those interests, he should be put in charge of a task force to curb corporate abuses and to restore laws against usury.
Biden's major role, though, should be to honestly advise his President on how best to move legislation through the Senate and navigate a just and firm foreign policy. Gallivanting about the world interfering with the Department of Defense or State should be minimized, as he will be needed in Washington more.
Parking attendant.
Community organizer.
Since Biden knows that he will be President of the Senate then let him do his job and tell the Senators that no more pork will be tolerated in these difficult times and then work towards more unity in the Senate.
He should let Biden run the country! Biden has much more experience and is not going to let Puttin walk all over him. Obama should just show up shake hands and say great speeches. Let Biden do the real work! Obama has know business being in there I have know idea how we let this happen!
Jack
Joe Biden should be a greeter at the front door of the white house.
Just like any other second in command, Joe Biden should ride shot-gun and be Barack Obama’s mentor, confidant, sounding board, back-up, stunt double, food taster or what ever else it might take to make the Obama presidency as successful as possible.
Follow the new first dog around with a pooper scooper.
I think Biden is a steady hand at getting along with others, wouldn't that be helpful with foreign affairs? He also has that great smile and could pitch in with dental advocacy as part of improved access to Health Care for Americans. 🙂
. . . Morning wake up calls.
He should be used as a new "secret weapon". Instead of invading a country, now Obama can just send Biden over to "talk" the enemy to death.
One of the main functions should be to participate in discussions with Obama and if opinions differ then it helps to make sure proper thought goes into all moves before they are made since all angles need to be considered.
Joe Biden is going to be the architect of valuable coalitions that President Obama will be able to use to get watershed legislation through Congress.
Biden should be a quasi "secretary of state" for a certain strategic hot spot in the world such as the Middle East or Asia, to add to the Secretary of State's global strategy, but with a more focused involvement.
With his experience in foreign policy and in his ability to work across the aisle in Congress I would hope Mr. Obama would make good use of him. He would be the perfect "good will" ambasador, since Bush has completely destroyed our image with the world. We are so in need of someone who can help remind the rest of the world that we really are the 'good guys'
If Mr. Biden is doing his job properly, he should blend into the background until needed on center stage. He should be Mr. Obama's adviser, confidant, and good-will ambassador. If not, he'll overshadow Obama's Presidency like Mr. Cheney overshadowed Mr. Bush's Presidency. A good modern-day Vice Presidential role model is Al Gore or George H.W. Bush.
Let Joe be Joe.
Foreign Policy and ambassador of peace in the Middle East.
Biden can play the part of bad cop when Obama uses the Good Cop, Bad cop routine in questioning Ahjmadinijad.
First off, how about putting Biden in charge of an investigation of Treasury Sec Paulson and how he came up with these wild ideas of an immediate bailout.
President-elect Obama should consider using Joe Biden's experience in Foreign policy, by having Biden travel around the world visiting our allies and those who oppose us.
Also, since Biden has been in Congress for so many years he will be helpful in lobbying Congress on behalf of the President.
Or Biden could leave a committee of physicians,politicians, and others, to come up with the best National Healthcare program the best minds of our country can come up with.
1. Repair relationships with foreign countries
2. Serve as advisor on all issues both domestic and foreign
3. Convince the press that Americans are sick and tired of all the Palin interviews. She wouldn't give an interview during the election and now we can't get her to shut up.
How should Barack Obama make the best use of Vice President-elect Joe Biden?
He should utilize his foreign policy experience and Biden isn't a shrinking violet, he'll tell congress how it is and what is expected from them..
Jenna
Roseville CA
In addition to specific duties, trips abroad, etc., I hope Obama will use Biden as a sounding board for new ideas and approaches to problems, and ask him questions. Biden seems such a marvelous personality in addition to having a wealth of knowledge – especially on foreign affairs and Congress.
Although Joe Biden's expertise is in Foreign Affairs, he's been in the government so long that lots of other knowlege has rubbed off on him. Obama should not let is pride stnd in the way of taking advantage of Joe's knowlege and that of other people who have the talent he lacks in other fields.
As a liaison to bring both sides of the aisle together and as a foreign policy adviser and ambassador to repair the damage done by Bush and Cheney in the international setting.
Of course with foreign affairs. So happy he picked Biden for his running mate. His sense of humor can also lighten up things when Obama is having a bad day at the office. I think they make an excellent team.
Obama should appoint Biden his "right-hand man," use him as a foreign policy source, sounding board and confidant, and never let him carry on a subterranean administration a la Cheney. Keep him busy doing lots of very necesssary work to help get this country back on track. There's a lot of real talent and common sense in this duo, so let's get on with the work!
Isn,t his job to tell the senate what to do? I seem to recall hearing that soewhere......
He should be used to examine and recommend changes to the Executive branch to bring checks and balances back to our federal government.
Advisor and diplomacy expert. He's wonderful in foreign policy, and Obama has stated he wants him to bounce ideas off of. Biden will be an excellent right hand man.
The House is a bye. Biden need to concentrate on appeasing the remaining conservative Republicans enough to minimize filibusters.
Although, cloture is still possible with Alaska headed to Begich, Minnesota
with 25,000 undetermined votes and a run-off in Georgia; this seems unlikely.
By utilizing him in the manner prescribed by the Constitution. What a concept,eh?
Biden should be part of the team advising Obama on foreign policy and play a key-role in the implementing the infastructure rebuild.
Get back to doing what a VP is supposed to do as opposed to all the evil, self-serving, war profiteering misadventures that Cheney was alway involved in.
Biden should be part of the team advising Obama on foreign policy and play a key-role in the implementing the infastructure rebuild.
I don't know Joe, but I wish Joe was a friend of mine. His best position would be on a bar stool talking to the local folks around the country about the new administration's progress putting the country back on track.
Do not be his puppet.like the present two knuckle heads.
Biden will have his hand's full trying to clean up Cheney's mess Jack!
If you had Joe the plumber living in your house and your plumbing needed fixed you would have him fix it. When you have a vice president who served as chairman in the senate on the foreign relations committee. You would have him worked in that area in your administration.
I have every confidence that Obama WILL make the best use of Joe's knowledge and experience – he doesn't need second guessing from us – and I'm sure Joe will let Obama know if he has a different opinion!
Foreign policy – that's his expertise. While Obama's main concern should be the current economic crisis, Biden should focus on renewing American diplomacy.
He will be fantastic when he starts to rebuilt our foreign relations. At this time no one wants to hear about more troops being placed in harm's way, but he might be the first political person in the world to do something...anything at all...about Darfur. That step could repair some of the credibility we have lost and help a bunch of people for no reason other than they desperately need it.
I would think Biden has made some pretty good contacts over his terms in office and will be able to reach out to people for their support on some contentious issues.
If Republican rhetoric is any indication it looks like they are intent on bringing down the Obama administration or at the very least obstructing it at every opportunity as witnessed by some of their outrageous statements.
In recent years, I have felt that we should have two Presidents. One for domestic issues and one for Foreign affairs. Obama is going to be neck deep in domestic issues, the answer is a no brainer.
Utilize his strengths in foreign policy, restore the VP role as one of qualification based on intelligent thought, a respect for the US Constitution, and a working knowledge of the Senate.
Bouncer?
Obama and biden are smart. they will figure that out!
President Obama should keep Vice President Biden close and involved in major political decisions just in case he ever has to assume presidential duties. He should also coordinate the realignment of military forces, including the withdrawal from Iraq, in order to allow Obama to focus on the economy. In addition, his experience in teaching constitutional law would be invaluable in coordinating the Justice Department's investigations of fraud and corruption in financial markets and of criminal conduct by defense contractors. Joe should also take a good long look at reforming the Justice Department, a role familiar to him for most of his career.
I've a feeling Biden won't be spending a whole lot of time on US soil. Hopefully, his first few trips overseas will be to escort our troops in Iraq HOME.
I think Barack should use VP Biden as a diplomat both abroad and at home. I think Biden has the right personality, knowledge and attitude to help rebuild the bridges that have been burnt over the last 8 years. This in itself is full time job thanks to the way the country has been governed during the last two terms.
Anything that Joe Biden does will be an improvement over Dick Cheney. He is a very smart man, and he knows the Constitution applies to the administration as well as " We the people".
VP-Elect Biden will be an invaulable asset to this new administration because of his many years of experience in foreign affairs. His talents and extensive knowledge should be used to the fullest extent within the bounds of the office. His connections and world-wide appeal will benefit our nation by reestablishing our reputation throughout the international community. Biden's passion for our soldiers and veterans and their need for recognition and support will also be one platform that his strong voice will be heard. His philosophies concerning education, health care, established social service programs and energy alternatives will help to strengthen the backbone of of our nation once again. So, Joe Biden should be seen and heard as an active force in this administration.
Obama already told us his intentions were that Joe Biden be by his side in every meeting. So, he respects Joe as a guide as he has spent more of his life in the Senate than outside of it. Biden’s strength of experience will give him an advantage when talking about defense and homeland security issues. Biden’s extensive work on crime control will be an asset too. It is refreshing to see after the Bush/Cheney disconnect that these two men seem to compliment eachother in a way that just might bring productivity and accomplishments back to American government.
Chair a bi-partisan task force. Either one that truly solves the healthcare issue(s) or an all encompassing solution to energy aternatives, independence, etc.
Two words: foreign policy.
Obama selected him for this purpose, so why not put him to work!
Foreign policy
He's smarter and better educated and more qualified to make that decision than most of us.
Let's wait and see what President Barack Obama decides.
Too many novices already butting in and giving unwanted advice and criticism.
Do not copy nor become like the previous vp!
but then again, there is no comparison. Mr. Biden and his years of experience and his integrity will make it possible to restore our standing in the world with Obama as the President!
Feed, water, and walk the new puppy.
Joe the VP is a great roll up your sleeves and get to work kinda guy. He would be great in terms of foreign policy but would also be great in terms of domestic and social issues. Joe the VP could be a great brainstorming partner. Joe the VP is the genuine article, what you see if what you get and that, my friends, is a relief.
I'm sure the President-Elect doesn't need any advice from he on how to best use Joe Biden, but bet your bottom dollar he will be used wisely, and often.
Keep him away from microphones and cameras. Send him on diplomatic missions to Poland, Italy, Chicago, California and Florida, with no return tickets.
biden should do what every other VP has done in history go to funerals of dead world leaders and break a deadlock over a pending bill in the legislature !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Use him to restore good relations with our allies and our enemies. Use him to apply his knowledge to Iraq, Iran, Afganistan. Use him so the president can concentrate on domestic problems. Use him for wise counsel. What does he know about energy? Ralph, Yakima, Wa.
Jack; Joe Biden will grandstand "real democracy" agendas by focusing on Campaign mission statements, not like Cheney who directed from a hunting blind.
Jack,
Vice President Biden would indeed make a great foreign emissary to create a new dialogue with our angry allies and to hopefully create a new relationship with countries in the Middle East that we have not even had a diplomat reside in for decades. We could also use someone to put together a team of participants to decide how best tor repair and replace detereiorating infrastructure such as dams, bridges, ports, sewer and sanitation facilities, better use of our national rail systems, alternative energy policies, and immigration.
Building international relationships....let me say that again....building international relationships. With the damage the Bush administration has done to our international image and our relationships with other countries, we need someone who is respected around the world to help build our relationships so we regain our footing on the international stage. It's time that black eye were healed and Biden, among others in an Obama administration are the ones to do it.
Supreme Court nominations, Foreign Policy and National Security.. Biden is the best at grilling and staring down Supreme Court candidates, dictators and the people who are supposed to be watching over our liberties, not trampling over our liberties. He has Obamas back..
Obama will likely use Biden as a sounding board for ideas and policies put forth by some of his other advisers and cabinet members as well as a good will ambassador through the world.
Regardless of what Biden does you can bet it will be 100% better than what Cheney did in the same role.
Foreign policy undoing the mess that the Bush Administration has done.
At the forefront of the foreign policy issues is the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Getting that straight would at least stop the recruitment of crazies to al-Qaeda's fold. It is a must. They both need to be nudged or dragged to the table if need be and get an agreement together and BOTH SIDES abide by it.
Lock him up in a closet
Jack,
Joe's role will be to make sure the the "vice" stays out of the presidency.
Obama needs to watch him with a close eye, Biden has done nothing in all the years hes been in the house, hes no good just look at when he was campaigning for president nobody picked him, he just talks the talks.
Jack: Joe Biden should have two jobs: foreign affairs and justice. He should be used as an advisor in both areas and spokesman for President-elect Obama. Work be kind the scenes to make sure the Attornney General is the lawyer for the people not just another lawyer for the President, as was the case in the Bush Administration.
John
Alabama
Biden, by comparison, makes most people seem very intelligent. There is one exception to that so I would have VP Biden go on news shows where he can shine and outthink the interviewers.
Anything , he is more than capable and what a refreshing change, start with foreign relationships and work around to be sure all the areas are covered, we need them both to so so much.
hi jack
he would be used in forign policies and bring together the votes in the senate to pass major bills,he has alot of freinds in the seate and thats the best way to bring votes together
bay pines fl
A Vice President should be someone who believes what the president believes but also be able to speak and think for him or herself. In the case of Vice President Biden, his foreign policy experience is a asset that should definitely be but to good use. President Elect Obama would also be wise to dispatch his valuable VP to America's Heart Land in attempts to win over those who reside in the red states because the VP does have a strong blue collar appeal.
Jack,
President-elect Barack Obama should use Joe Biden to undo the harm that was done to this nation by Palin as she went around and is still doing which is causing a racial divide. She constantly spoke about their America and our America and said things like, "They don't look at America the same way we do." Now, the result is that you have people, especially in the rural areas, who are reacting in a way racists from the past acted.
Never let Joe become "the most dangerous person in the administration"- like Dick was !
Always learn from others mistakes...
Obama picked Joe for the right reason- Foreign Policy.
Picking up dry cleaning ...
Getting the car washed ...
Walking the shelter dog ...
Biden strength is foreign policy, so three thoughts:
– Iraq
– Afghanistan
– the Palestinians
If he can help us solve any one of these things, he will have done more than Cheney did in 8 years. If Biden solves two, he gets into the Hall of Fame.
I think Obama will use Joe Biden for one of the main reasons he chose him as VP: foreign affairs. It's obvious that the world is in love with Obama, except Russia, but who cares. Obama's likeability along with Biden's knowledge and experience will put our country right where it needs to be on the international stage.
Marlon
Tallahassee, Florida
If it's legal, give him dual responsibilities: VP and Sec of State.
Let him handle foreign relations, he has years of experience at it.
Support Obama and watch his back.
let him escort palin home and he can seee russia while he is there.
Foreign Policy. Joe has a lot of experience in that field.
That's an easy one: foriegn policy.
Jack,
First of all; thanks for not having a Palin question today.
To answer your question, how about if we leave it up to president elect Obama.
By having Biden keeping Cheney from asking the President-Elect to go hunting.
If all else fails, Joe can have a full time job criticizing and questioning every single move the Republicans make regarding policy, legislation, appointments, etc......
It seems the Republicans already have a few bulldogs with lipstick who are doing the same to Obama and his administration even when he has not actually assumed the office he won by a landslide!
Jack,
President Elect Obama and V.P Elect Joe Biden are partners. They should discus everything. They are both smart and know a lot of knowledgeable people. What a plus this will be after the two dim-wits we have had.
J.K. Boise, Idaho
Joe , needs to begin visiting every country we can do business with and begin the economic recovery of creating jobs, exports etc... whatever it takes. Also patch up what Bush has torn down.
Joe the Diplomat would best serve the country by sitting in Washington with a cell phone, swimming pool or firplace, and his grandkids. He deserves it. And he needs to be there for Barack when an idiot somewhere tests the rookie prez.
Jack, Joe Biden can also be a great orator. Perhaps Biden can be best used internationally, winning friends and influencing others through example.
Louise IN
Jack,I think that should be Obama's and Biden's decision. They were elected to govern so let's let them do it.
He should be used to closely monitor the state dept. and the defense depts.
He is such a likable guy, let him decide. Most of us know what our strong points are
Even though many have said Obama is "inexperienced in foreign policy", I do believe he will be the greatest president on foreign policy in the history of our nation. I'm sure Obama and Biden will agree on which duties Biden will be focusing on, but I think speaking with world leaders will not be one of them.
Let him preside over the Senate as is his responsibility. If done properly, that is a big enough job for anybody.
Obama should and have to use Joe for foriegn policy – Joe Biden have a long list of foriegn exprience that helps balance the world demanding seekin' for hlep.
Don't you think that should be up to Obama and Biden???? Who am I to tell the president and VP what to do!
He needs to be out front reasuring the people that Obama cares about the poor and the middle class. And maybe work at keeping Obama humble.
Obama should use Biden to help navigate the pitfalls of Washington considering all of the experience he has there.
Use Biden with his great knowledge of foreign affairs as a Sec. of State surogate. Obama deals with the economy for the first year or so, the sec of state can do their usual duties and Biden lines up the foreign deals Obama wants to prusue in year two. Divide and conquer!
S.
I'd like to see Biden head up the investigation of Bush & Co and hold them accountable for every crooked thing we already know they've done and the countless things we don't know yet. Call it revenge if you like, I call it justice. When I look at what's happened to my country in 8 short years, I want to cry.
Find out where that 'Undisclosed Location' of Cheney's is and keep him there until further notice. If you cut Biden too much slack he could be a loose canon and shoot us all in the foot.
Basically, anything that doesn't require Biden to give a speech.
how about for once in the past 50 years a vp keep an eye on congress
perry jones
council bluffs iowa
A good place to start would be to extensively investigate the office of the V.P. over the past eight years. Bring out into the sunshine all the illegal and unethical, under the table, and behind closed doors deals and shenanigans that have taken place. We The People would just like to know even if we can't do anything about it.
Foreign policy, just like he was chosen for the job for. He will be of use in other aspects, but that will come with time in the office.
use him to help regain our respect around the world!!!!!!!bush and chenny mortaged our respect, dignity, and integrity around the world... it would be nice to be respected around the world again!!!! and i think that means meeting with foriegn dignitaries around the world.... AND THAT MEANS FACE TO FACE !!!!!!!!!!! we should have nothing to fear from them... we just cant threaten them all the time like BUSH !!!!!!!!
Everyone will say foreign policy, but Biden is well liked and respected whereas Obama is a relative newcomer. Biden can bridge that gap.
How about financial reform in my and Biden's HOME STATE of delaware! Isn't that where many of these financial institutions are incorporated? I wonder why? Wouldn't Biden "reforming" the financial industry be like the fox guarding the hen house? The games are about to begin...and we will all have a ring side seat!
Chris – Wilmington, DE
i would use him for inside connections in washington, and foreign policy around the world.
Use his perfected skills in foreign policy and work with Obama to help make their promises to the people realized.
Joe seems to be a good man , let him have free range to do what he can to help. Each federal program needs to be looked over, starting with all goverment give me's, then take a close look at all the mortgage bailouts. Have you seen some of these houses these people have built and can't afford, they are enormous , I believe that it is greed and I don't feel like bailing out any of them.
I am not sure Biden has a useful purpose. Biden is 30 plus years of the past.. Where does Hope and Change in 30 years of the same old thing fit into that equation?
Good 'ol Joe. With the mess that the Bush Administration is leaving behind, VP Joe Biden will need to take a more active role than Dick Cheney. Busy days are ahead of VP Joe Biden. Too bad he can't undo everything the Bush/Cheney twins did while in office. I don't think we'll see Joe Biden in a corner twiddling his thumbs.
He can be good cop to Rahm Emanuel's bad cop.
This is just a guess, but shouldn't he carry out VP duties?
He should use him to repair the damage the current administration has done in the world arena. Our world standing is at an all time low. Joe Biden could help repair the cowboy image of America that has been displayed during the last eight years under Bush and his cronies. America needs to be restored to its former years as a beacon of hope for all. The election of Obama will certainly go a long way in this recovery process.
He should use him as a partner in trying to get this country back on the right track. Joe Biden has the knowledge and experience to help President-elect Obama get the job done.
Foreign policy, as long as he stays home and keeps his mouth shut.
I will have VP Biden running the hunt for Osama Bin Laden. By the end of the first term, I believe we woud have cought or killed OBL.
Hi Jack:
Mr. Obama should rely on him as a resource. Joe Biden has a wealth of experience that can facilitate some of the correction factors that most obviously need to take place in our broken country.
Ron San Diego
Obama should change the nature of the vice president position and start something new. The president and vice president should combine their knowledge and begin leading the country together as a team based on what the American people want done.
As C.O.O. = Chief Opinion Officer
I think Joe Biden will make a great VP! However, there's no need to get involved too quickly. Maybe he could help train the President's new dog?
I think Barack Obama should take full advbantage fo Joe Bidens experience to help him with the decisions he has to make and, privately of course, make full use of Joe Biden's bluntness not as a bad thing but instead as a good thing by using this talent of Joe Biden to help him make better decisions.
Oh, any way he wants to use him is fine with me. What a relief it will be to see the end of the cheney presidency. Oops, vice-presidency.
Obama should use Biden as the person who coaches or helps him on the foreign affairs/policies.
Jack
If I was President Obama I would use Joe Biden Foreign relation experience and his Senate connection to help get his agenda passed.
Biden should spend quality time in West Virginia, Kentucky, Arizona, Georgia and the Dakotas to turn them blue by 2010.
Biden needs to be set up in an office where he can do no damage. He's a man who can't help but stick his foot in his mouth and plagarize speeches. President-elect Obama has enough issues on his hands and doesn't need to be cleaning up any of this guys messes. He was only put on the ticket to help Obama get a few white catholic votes. He's done his job, now put him in a closet.
Eric, Fort Collins, CO
Foreign policy - that's Joe Biden's strength and that's why Obama picked him as VP in the first place.
Keep his mouth shut. The last thing Obama needs during his administration is for Biden to casually "go off script."
For all of Joe Biden's expertise and know-how, whatever he ends up doing Obama should keep him away from the media before his big mouth ends up revealing some classified intelligence.
He should be used to track down any execs that receive BONUSES from bailout funds!
Simple, since Biden strong suit is foreign policy give him a big role there.
I don' t mean to let him take over like Cheney, but use his brain.
Also it will be a great idea for Obama to use his Cabinet for something other than the doormats the have been for the last eight years.
The best way for Obama to utilize his vice president would be to resign, so that our President would have sufficient experience. Then Biden could choose Obama as his veep, and by 2016, Obama would actually be qualified to be President.
To focus on prison reform to reduce the recidivism rate. The penal system needs to transform itself from a mere money-maker for corporations to one of realistic transformation of individuals, for the ultimate benefit of society.
i think president obama should assign joe biden on the war in iraq while he deals with the current economic crisis
Jack –
I am by far no scholar on American Vice Presidents. In my life time I do not think I have seen a VP pick as smart as Joe Biden.
Joe Biden should be used in one basic way – be the number 1 advisor to the President of the U.S. Biden is not only a great foreign affairs expert, but also very knowledgeable of national issues.
If Barrack Obama is as smart as I think he is he will truly make Biden his top advisor and not just a tie breaker and successor to the presidency (God forbid).
JP
By having him begin criminal proceedings against Bush for crimes against humanity. Bush was nothing more than a liar and did nothing but fabricate Iraq's supposed hiding of weapons of mass destruction and should be held accountable as anyone else would have been.
I think he should serve as Obama's right hand man (two peas in a pod). This would certainly be a pragmatic change.
Obama should have Bidon start the push to get rid of the portions of the bail-out the alow for the big bonus' and company parties... Are they both not current members of congress? If this issue is not addressed; the American public should vote out everyone who voted for it. This is too simple to mess up.
The President-Elect should use VP-Elect the same way Bill Clinton used Al Gore with some modifying where needed if necessary.
Vice President elect Biden can be used most effectly in forgien affairs, he seems to have a very good track record and would appear to be able to at least have positive conversations with these dignataries. "Joe" also knows his way around Washington and this would also sever to enlarge President elect Obama's insight on how to menover as he leads this country into the most historical Presidency ever.
Joe Biden will make a great VP and could be used to help ease partisan politics in Washington. He could help promote cooperation between Democrats / Republicans. Because of his willingness to express his own opinions whether or not they align with Obama's, he represents the type of leader the new president-elect will need in his administration.
Obama will put biden as like his little cheerleader but no offence to biden he will also somehow help him because the economy will get better but how and when biden will greatly influence it
Biden was purely an election "trick play". How different is he from McCain, a dinosaur of the Senate? Heck! he has been there longer than McCain. Now that Obama is the "man"....and Biden has served his role...expect to see very little of Biden. Obama's intellect functions at levels far above the quintessential Beltway style politics that Biden still represents. This is the change we all have been waiting for!!!!
Joe Biden can take shifts with Barack Obama reading through the budget line by line.
John
Dalton, Georgia
Obama picked wisely. Biden is well versed in Forgeign Affairs and lord knows there are bridges to mend there. His work on the Judiciary Committee gives him expertise in that area... I like the fact that he has been a leader in cracking down on white-collare crimes... Someone needs to keep a watchful eye on all that bailout money... that is if there is anything left of it. We still have 68 more days of Bush and Paulson... Yup, Biden can be put to work just about anywhere without having to waste time brining him up to speed. Shoot, I bet he already knows where Africa is!
Give proper advice on areas Obama lacks experience. Points out honestly when Obama tilt into making bad decisions.
– Nuwan from Houston, TX
They should get rid of Biden. He is an idiot.
I hope they can work together for the good of the country.Joe Biden was a good pick as he knows alot about foreign policy.He is a good decent man and I wish him well.
He could be best used for pushing through the repeals on all those nasty Bush/Cheney executive orders that are floating around out there continuing to do damage to our constitution. In this day and age, no one should be left standing around with nothing to do, especially the VP. He would also make a good "transparency cop" to alert the public of who in Congress is not doing their job. That alone should keep him very, very busy for the next four years.
Jack,
Biden's a guy with many feather's in his cap. He can do a lot of things. First, he should be Mr. Foreign Policy. He will help bring America's standing in the world out of the toilet. Second, along with Rahm Emmanuel, be the guy that gets legislation and the Democratic agenda done. Third, the guy who works behind the scenes to keep the Dems in lockstep.
Finally, Biden should be watching the party's image and standing with voters. Keep this coalition intune with voters and make it both 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016 proof from the GOP.
Jose,
Carrollton, TX
Send him to Afghanistan, as a Navy Seal, to find Osama Bin Laden. 🙂
I hope Biden and Obama change the VP duties. Cheaney has run this
country long enough. I want to see Biden do "something", he is smart
and will be able to help Obama in situations where he is not completely comfortable. He will be a great help with his past knowledge, we have a great team coming up!
Put a four year gag on him, and take him to that undiclosed place that Chaney stayed.
Jack thank god he pick Biden ,Obama win his election thank to Mr. Biden
such experience and talent senator!!Obama should have him as a adviser for everything he needs.! f
ANA FROM NEW YORK
Certainly he should be the first VP to have to work; have him use his foreign policy experience closely with the secretary of state which relieves President Obama and allows him to work on OUR problems. Oh, and discontinue foreign aid until our economy is in the black....the government too.
I would love to see President Elect Obama break tradition and use VP Elect Biden in a way that would put him to good use. In my life-time I have only seen VP used as run boys. He has been around the bend a time or two and I really do think he could be helpful. Give him task just as all the large corporations do. He is a smart man with a lot of know how, and knows a lot of people around the world.
Joe Biden should spend most of his time traveling abroad, mending bridges. And one of his impromptu stand-up comedy shows for those of us at home could lift our spirits!
Biden, bless his heart, should take some quick lessons in learning to keep his foot out of his mouth. and then he should be sent around the world to restore the dignity and prestige of the USA. He should be involved in all policy a la Al Gore, and, of course, should be the liaison to the Congress and the Senate.
Haven't you heard? He has the job of being over the Senate.
Joe Biden is the essential foriegn policy leader fir the Obama administration. His role should be as America's prodigial "Prime Minister." He is the best candidate to repair Bush's short-sighted foreign policy. Imagine Sarah Palin blundering through disasterous meetings with world leaders! Thank god for jaded middle-America!
I'd say President Obama should make sure that they lead as a team. In case of the unthinkable, he'd be ready to take over the agenda that they were working on TOGETHER. (Clinton and Gore were great at this.) The only thing that could make a Presidents assassination worse, would be to have our country in a fog of confusion...even for a minute. Isn't the job of the VP to be ready to lead at a moment's notice?
As a Catholic, Biden could do his part to further the dialogue amongst anti-abortionists, the Chuch, and all U.S. citizens. Alas, he is only a layman. Unfortunately, the current economic issues dominate the headlines today, because of the poor management in Washington recently. Biden must first reach out to the middle class, and help to restore the nation's collective confidence and a strong economy.
Jacksonille, Illinois
Lawn Jockey at the White House
As president, Mr. Obama should use Mr. Biden as a voice at the table. I believe Biden's personal integrety and 25+ years experience in dealing with the: dumb-dumbs, crooks, homophobes, zealots, hired guns, pedeophiles and other "inside the beltway" characters, will prove invaluable in forwarding the adgenda.
Jack Kass
Toledo, Ohio
President-Elect Obama should work with Joe Biden as a partner, keeping him (and himself) transparent to the public. One of the worst things about the Bush administration was the secrecy of Dick Cheney. Whether he was as sinister as many would believe is unknown, but Bush suffered by keeping him invisible, and therefore suspicious. There are so many issues on the new administration's agenda that Joe Biden can be used to his potential, and there's nothing to hide. I have all the faith in the world that this new administration will change politics forever. 100% of our issues won't be solved, but significant changes will surely come.
Head up a team to investigate the Bush Administration.
Obama and Biden is bringing change to Washington which also goes for the position of Vice President and any other cabinet position.
It appears that Biden will be a very active VP. – continuing to work on Foreign policies and help line item some of the old Bush/Cheny policies with the hidden agenda. Obama and Biden are a great team and I am looking forward for them working together.
Gail
Texas
Remember he was one of the good old boys for a long time.
The vice president can keep a close eye on Congress, because he knows all of their tricks.
But the president needs to keep a close eye on the vice president. And keep him well-informed.
Dale New Mexico
Just keep the Big Bag of Wind away from a live microphone.
President Obama should have him be a strong influential voice in congress. Speaking in a strong loud voice to help get policies through. Also, every now and then, he should address the country about some significant issues; about policies he is fighting for or a certain direction the country should be going. Also,he can help be an ear in foreign countries.
Biden is not the type of guy to hold his tongue and sit quietly. He speaks his mind. And I think that is exactly why Obama picked him. Its clear to all that Obama is the kind of person that enjoys listening to opposing points of view, and clearly doesn't feel threatened by it. That alone is refreshing.
Biden will offer President Obama his advice. He will also be sent abroad for meetings with other countries. He will help with the Senate. Whatever it is, he won't be a lame-duck VP. But he won't be Cheney either. He'll be helpful to the nation – for a change.
Joe Biden can assist President Obama in numerous ways...foreign policy, working with Congress where and when appropriate or needed, helping repair our global relationships, to name a few. But one of the things I noticed during the campaign was how relaxed Obama appeared when he was with Joe Biden. Vice President Biden may be the one who can bring levity to Obama when he becomes a bit too serious or burdened. These two complement each other very well. They seem to genuinely like each other. And that's good for the American people any day of the week
the best use for Joe Biden is to use him as a boat anchor
Biden offers Obama and the country much, and they both know what that is better than any of us. What say we back off,
and watch for the nice surprises this president elect has in store, regarding good 'ole Joe?
Foriegn policy and an advisor