Biden, the former aide added, has always wanted to be president. And without the prospect of a Clinton candidacy, he would be the inevitable candidate, as most vice presidents are by tradition.

“It’s gotta be a little irritating for him because of the fascination with Hillary,” said Martin Sweet, an assistant professor of political science at Northwestern University. “It’s a really peculiar case. It has to be personally challenging for him.”

And, as one Democratic strategist surmised, “He knows what he’s doing.”

“The thing is, everyone—including Hillary—is trying to figure out how to handle this strange and awkward time. They’re all trying to keep their names out there and their options open.”