Former vice president Joe Biden, whose first failed presidential run was marred by allegations of plagiarism, is adopting an economic slogan the United Nations used in April.
Biden will unveil his $700 billion economic recovery plan, titled "Build Back Better," in a speech outside Scranton, Pa., on Thursday. The alliterative slogan previously appeared in an April United Nations campaign urging countries to exploit the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity for "enhancing climate action," among other agenda items.
"As the world begins planning for a post-pandemic recovery, the United Nations is calling on Governments to seize the opportunity to 'build back better' by creating more sustainable, resilient and inclusive societies," the U.N. global communications team said in a statement.
Biden's speech, according to a preview offered by the campaign, promises to be bold and exhilarating. The Democrat will pledge, for example, to work with allies to "modernize international trade rules and associated domestic regulations regarding government procurement." His campaign has not explained how the $700 billion plan, which will also include policies to promote racial equality, would be paid for.
Biden has blatantly plagiarized from overseas sources in the past. During a presidential primary debate in 1987, he was caught stealing lines (and hand gestures) from a speech given months earlier by U.K. Labour Party leader Neil Kinnock.
Biden, who turns 78 in November, would be the oldest individual ever elected to the presidency.