I really don't care at all how much Obama is being paid to speak. Sure, it would be a great statement if he turned it down, and it is crazy to pay $400k for just a single speech. But if people are crazy enough to pay it, that is their problem. And while it would be great if Obama said no as a grand gesture about income inequality, I don't think it matters that much if he doesn't take the opportunity and grabs the cash instead.
This would be completely different if Obama were still in office, or were still seeking some elected office. Then the high price would raise questions about buying influence, etc. But Obama is retired. He doesn't have any influence to sell. If rich assholes want to overpay him, who am I to blame Obama for taking it?
This would be completely different if Obama were still in office, or were still seeking some elected office. Then the high price would raise questions about buying influence, etc. But Obama is retired. He doesn't have any influence to sell. If rich assholes want to overpay him, who am I to blame Obama for taking it?
