Throughout 2023, President Joe Biden allocated a significant portion of his time to various retreats and personal residences, as revealed by a comprehensive review of public records. The President, at 81 years old, spent approximately 37% of the year – a total of 138 days – at these leisure destinations, showcasing a preference for Delaware locales, Camp David, and other high-end vacation spots.
Delaware emerged as the President’s favored retreat, where he spent 90 days across his Greenville home and a coastal retreat in Rehoboth. In addition to these personal sojourns, President Biden dedicated 22 days for official vacations, including travel time. These vacations were split between his Delaware properties, as well as other luxury destinations such as St. Croix, Lake Tahoe, and Nantucket.
Camp David also featured prominently in the President’s itinerary, accounting for 26 days of his time, not including two days allocated for summit preparations. This pattern of getaways in 2023 slightly decreased from 2022, when the President spent over 38% of his time at these locations. The data encompasses both full and partial days spent at these sites.
The White House has consistently affirmed the President’s capacity to work remotely, emphasizing that his duties do not necessitate his constant presence in Washington, D.C. Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton, in a statement to the press, underscored this perspective, detailing the President’s ongoing work during his vacations. Dalton highlighted instances of foreign policy engagements and crisis management during these periods, reinforcing the notion that the President remains active regardless of his location.
Dalton also addressed criticism, particularly from Republican circles, pointing out the irony in their accusations given their own record in Congress. She highlighted their departure in December without addressing key governmental and national security funding.
Historically, President Biden has been known for his Amtrak commutes during his tenure as a Senator. His time spent away from Washington as President surpasses that of his predecessors. George H.W. Bush previously held the record, spending 36% of his presidency at leisure spots, closely followed by Donald Trump, who spent 26% of his time away, often at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
In 2023, Biden enjoyed five significant vacations, often at luxurious properties provided by Democratic supporters. The year began with a stay at a high-end compound in St. Croix, courtesy of billionaire Democratic donors Bill and Connie Neville. The summer saw the Bidens spending 20 days at various locations including Tom Steyer’s lavish Lake Tahoe estate. The White House stated that the Bidens were renting this property at a “fair market value.”
Vacation time also allowed the President to engage in personal activities, like attending spin classes, while simultaneously handling presidential responsibilities. For instance, during a vacation in August, Biden acknowledged a temporary lack of detailed knowledge about international events due to his personal commitments.
Thanksgiving saw the Biden family at the Nantucket estate of David Rubenstein, a property valued at nearly $39 million, featuring extensive amenities. The President concluded the year with another stay in St. Croix at the Neville’s residence.
Questions have arisen regarding the ethics of these free stays, especially as they were not disclosed on the President’s annual financial forms. Comparisons have been drawn to conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who faced scrutiny over trips with real estate tycoon Harlan Crow. These instances have sparked debates about the appropriateness of such benefits for individuals in high public office.