Biden denies ‘inappropriate’ behaviour toward women

JOE BIDEN yesterday said he has “not once – never” knowingly acted inappropriately toward women as he sought to mitigate the fallout from an allegation made last week by a female politician who felt “uneasy” when he kissed her during a rally.

The former vice president and a leading contender to become the Democratic presidential candidate issued a statement in which he said during his many years in public life he had offered countless “handshakes, hugs, expressions of affection, support and comfort” which he never felt were improper.

On Friday, Lucy Flores revealed how in 2014, when she was 35 and running to become Nevada lieutenant governor, Mr Biden attended a rally to support her bid.

“I felt him get closer to me from behind,” she wrote in an essay published by New York Magazine: “He proceeded to plant a big slow kiss on the back of my head... He made me feel uneasy, gross, and confused.”

Mr Biden, 76, did not deny Miss Flores’s story. “Not once – never – did I believe I acted inappropriately. If it is suggested I did so, I will listen respectfully,” he said. “But it was never my intention. I may not recall these moments the same way, and I may be surprised at what I hear. But we have arrived at an important time when women feel they can and should relate their experiences, and men should pay attention.

“And I will. I will also remain the strongest advocate I can be for the rights of women.”