Joe Biden denies misconduct allegations

Former US vice-president Joe Biden has defended his interactions with women, denying allegations of misconduct ahead of a widelyexpected announcement of a presidential run.

A Nevada politician’s assertion that Mr Biden’s kiss on the back of her head made her feel uncomfortable prompted some Democrats to question whether the 76-year-old is too out of step with his own party to run a successful 2020 presidential campaign.

The episode, recounted by Democrat Lucy Flores, highlighted an aspect of Mr Biden’s persona that has been publicly known for years; the affectionate whispers, hugs and shoulder squeezes he has long given to women, often on camera and at high-profile public events.

In a moment of national reckoning over sexual harassment and the treatment of women, some Democrats said Mr Biden’s actions have taken on a new light. Mr Biden said it was never his intention to make women feel discomfort and if he did so, “I will listen respectfully”.