President Obama
Barack Hussein ObamaPopping the progressive bubble Can America prevent a global warming cold war? Biden, top officials spread out to promote infrastructure package MORE stayed neutral Thursday about his possible sucessor, saying both Vice President Biden
Joe BidenHouse Democrats push vote on social spending plan to Friday Fauci says all adults should 'go get boosted' Senate confirms Park Service director after years of acting heads MORE and former secretary of State Hillary Clinton
Hillary Diane Rodham ClintonPopping the progressive bubble GOP primary in NH House race draws national spotlight Trump endorses primary challenger to Peter Meijer in Michigan MORE "would make outstanding presidents."
Asked to "compare and contrast" the pair's presidential attributes, Obama told MSNBC host there was "not a chance am I going there."
"They've got different strengths, but both of them would be outstanding," Obama said.
The president offered effusive praise for both, seen as favorites for the 2016 Democratic nomination should they to decide to run.
"Both Hillary and Joe would make outstanding presidents and possess the qualities that are needed to be outstanding presidents," Obama said.
Of Biden, Obama said he would go down in history "as one of the best vice presidents ever."
"He has been with me, at my side, in every tough decision I've made, from going after [Osama] bin Laden to dealing with healthcare issues, to, you name it," Obama said.
He similarly praised Clinton as one of the best secretaries of State in American history.
Clinton "helped transition us from a deep hole that we were in ... around the world, and to rebuild confidence and trust in the United States," Obama said.
More broadly, Obama said presidents needed to have a "connection with the American people" and "persistence."
"If you feel those folks in your gut every single day, that will get you through the setbacks and the difficulties and the frustrations and the criticisms that are inherent in the office," he said.
