Vice President Joe Biden often gets a lot of attention for his jokes and unusual remarks. On the first day of Congress’ new session, the affable vice-president again showed why he is popular with senators’ families.
While swearing in the new senators, Biden seemed to enjoy himself as much as the new office holders. He posed for selfies with the children of senators. Biden also proclaimed the swearing-in ceremonies as “boring” while the children of the senators watched.
The vice-president made a trademark gaffe before swearing in freshman Iowa senator Joni Ernst. Biden greeted her by calling her “Gail”- her husband’s name.
He also made quips throughout the day, telling one participant,”We have something in common – we have sisters brighter and better looking than us.”
Another comical moment occurred while swearing in Colorado senator Cory Gardner. When Gardner asked Biden to talk to his grandmother, he didn’t hesitate to call.
“Betty, how are you? My name is Joe Biden, Vice President Biden.” said the vice-president. Biden claimed his grandmother ended the conversation by saying, ” Nice talking to you, I don’t have time. I’m watching my grandson being sworn-in.”
“I know! I just swore in your grandson,” replied Biden.
In addition to signing in new senators, Biden also swore in re-elected leaders like Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Biden struck a bipartisan note during the ceremony. “I got to be the first one to call him the majority leader,” said Biden.
At the end of the ceremony, Biden sounded wistful during his last swearing-in as vice-president. “I hope you love the Senate as much as I did,” said Biden to the senators. “It’s the greatest institution in the world.”
“I can’t think of a greater honor than being sworn in as a United States senator,” added Biden. “I hope they understand what an incredible opportunity they have.”
