January 28, 2009
Posted: January 28th, 2009 10:40 AM ET
Biden couldn't pass up poking fun at Chief Justice Roberts last week.
Biden couldn't pass up poking fun at Chief Justice Roberts last week.

(CNN) — An aide to Vice President Joe Biden tells CNN he called Chief Justice John Roberts last week to apologize for a light-hearted remark he made over the flubbed Inauguration Day oath of office.

"My memory is not as good as Justice Roberts, Chief Justice Roberts," Biden said last Wednesday, as he asked for a copy of the oath he was using to swear in senior members of the White House staff.

Several staffers reacted to the comment with groans and laughter, though President Obama, standing next to Biden, did not crack a smile.

An aide to the vice president said Tuesday the two men spoke privately after that comment. “They spoke and had a good conversation,” said the aide, who declined to give further details.

Roberts' mistake came about half way through the 35-word oath, when, reciting from memory, he said the word 'faithfully,' out of order. The flub confused Obama who ultimately repeated the mistake.

Meanwhile, Biden has been selected to handle the administration’s first foreign trip. The White House said Tuesday the vice president will travel to Germany next week with retired Gen. James Jones, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs.

Biden will represent the United States at the Wehrkunde, the annual security policy conference held in Munich.

–CNN's Ed Henry contributed to this report

Filed under: Joe Biden


Craig   January 28th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

Bidens comment was unprofessional to say the least. Sad Sad Sad attempt at a joke. Well he along with Obama is a joke. So here we have it.

Osama bin Laden
Obama Bidenladen

Man those are close.

Chris - Denver   January 28th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

is it just me or have Republicans all of a sudden developed remarkably thin skin?

Bill   January 28th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

As long as Biden does not lie to people like he has for the last 20 years.

Gaffemeister   January 28th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

Actually Joe thought he was at the FDR inauguration...

rurrikk   January 28th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Obama picked biden because he will do his job well. Another contribution that his campaign had over McCain. Palin had no xp. Biden will do a terrific job with foreign affairs

rena   January 28th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

I guess with everything going on in the economy is probably why a bunch of you are sounding like old betties. Maybe you should try laughter, you know the bible says that it does the heart good like medicine. People please try an lighten up; it will get better. This to will past. Just remember that everything that has a beginning must have an ending whether you like the outcome or not. Be patient and lest see what happens. In the meanwhile, I will be praying and smiling as much as possible, so that just in case I run into any of you on this blog, hopefully my smile will bring some joy and delight to your heart.

Jeremy   January 28th, 2009 3:00 pm ET

KenM: Check your spelling, then come back and play...I would love to see the facts to back up your claims...of course all I will see from you are New York Times articles and left-wing media filters...Why don't you get an understanding of economics, international relations, and the democratic process of the United States and then try to blame everything that has gone wrong on W and the (R)s...good luck. The only thing I will conceed is the horrible planning of the war in Iraq and keeping Rumsfeld on too long. After they got rid of him, things have steadily improved. Respect the man who led us through one of the most devistating attacks on our soil, and who had since kept us safe from further attacks. I only hope that President Obama can do the same.

DJ   January 28th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

Biden is a TOOL!!!

Oregon calling   January 28th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

Say it ain't so Joe!

Veteran in Kansas   January 28th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

Only ones that appear to be upset over a little hickup are those that it had no impact upon.

KenM   January 28th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

RFP says: "After 8 years of the sniping and nitpicking by the Left regarding the Bush administration, it seems the Left has it coming…"

Nitpicking? Isn't that just precious!.... a little righwinger defending his disgraced x-president. Yes, just so precious, but also astoundingly DELUSIONAL! I don't think its quite nitpicking to criticize an administration and his do-nothing [R] party when they continuously screwed-up everything significant that they touched: national security; foreign policy; environment; civil rights; constitutuonal process; the economy....and its not like these were close-calls or something; these were MAJOR screw-ups that we continue to live with today, e.g. Iraq, the recession.....

To you hyper-partisan, self-deluded rightwingers out there: are you feeling a little uncomfortable, upset about the election, scared that Obama might succeed in improving this country's troubles that YOU created? Well, too bad!....I rejoice in your discomfort, and celebrate your little vaccuous tantrums. And that discomfort you're feeling....that's my foot on your neck, and as time goes on I'll be applying more and more weight to the task.

Kathy S. Cloughn   January 28th, 2009 2:23 pm ET

Lighten up Barack! I thought it was funny. No apologies needed.

Southerner   January 28th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

BIden is an idiot. Of course, Obama picked him because he IS an idiot. Obama didn't want someone who could possibly overshadow him. That's why he didn't pick Hillary for VP.

PL   January 28th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

Apparently CNN is enjoying the attention this has attracted, I'll oblige.
To all who think that it is funny, just a joke, that we all should lighten up, you are right if you do this in the locker room, lunch room, water hole, SNL. You would not do this if you are a manager who is asked by the company CEO to represent the co to present award or recognition to employees. You are expected to be trusted to use restraints (even if you are right) in honor of the OFFICE (position) you hold and the OCCASION (as in swearing in the White House staff).
You may not have had the opportunity to think over this twice, because you are not in that kind of station in life (not meant to be unkind). The reality check is not to be so free to interject your own standard of behavior onto the second head of our country.
Restraints and propriety are qualities of leaders. Obama understands it.

Pete   January 28th, 2009 2:00 pm ET

The reason Roberts screwed up the oath is because Obama didn't wait his turn to begin speaking. What happened to more listening and less talking?

Brad   January 28th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

So Biden and Roberts are both human. Get over it, America.

Yoda   January 28th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Joe is a gaff machine and everybody knows. I guess he thinks he is witty or clever. Obama is going to have to gag this guy at some point. The Obama handlers will be spending the majority of their time explaining Joe's latest flub. Also I see Joe's wife has the same disease. This is going to be fun to watch.

Ken in Dallas   January 28th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

The real joke is that this is what more people are talking about than anything else.

Roberts screwed up the inauguration. If Biden doesn't crack jokes about it, you know Leno and Letterman will, so what's the harm?

jao   January 28th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

Joe Biden is about as funny as Dan Quayle.

GA Independent   January 28th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

Gosh – get a life! It was a funny comment from Biden. The new Pres. is trying so hard to not PO people unnecessarily... but get over it – all of you.

Don't sweat the small stuff. There's plenty to dither about these days. Go pick on Rush – he's a large and easy target...

JC   January 28th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

The pot calling the kettle black. Let's see the media shoiw some of Biden's huge blunders.

AD   January 28th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

Lol. I don't see why he should apologize. :D

C'mon, let's have our chuckle and move on.

rat   January 28th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

I for one think it was funny. Some people just want to complain about everything, lighten up.

Sigma   January 28th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

No need for Biden to apologized. Roberts screwed up.

Diane Dagenais Turbide   January 28th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

Mr. Biden did not need to apologize since he did not say anything out of malice! I think we have to learn and be able to laugh at ourselves when we make an honest mistake…i.e. the judge!

Daniel, Atlanta, GA   January 28th, 2009 12:59 pm ET

@Lisa in Ohio, I really appreciated what you said.

peace,
Daniel

Agnes Fleming   January 28th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Joe, please put a lid on your lips!

waaahh   January 28th, 2009 12:56 pm ET

hahahaha, good, funny joke. tell roberts to stuff it.

RFP   January 28th, 2009 12:44 pm ET

Wow... an incredible amount of grace and leeway seems to be expected from Biden by the Left.

What cracks me up is how everyone seems worked up and appalled that the Right is causing a stir over this. As far as I'm concerned the Left deserves to every every dot and tittle of their movements documented and commented on. After 8 years of the sniping and nitpicking by the Left regarding the Bush administration, it seems the Left has

it

coming...

This is going to be fun...

Sharon Kitchen   January 28th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

this is o.k. V.P. Joe.
Obama is Pres.
The "new" admin is doing very good work.
God be with you on your trip.
Safe return.

Ron   January 28th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

This dude is a gaff machine... Why do libs always chose clowns as VPs?

J Schwack   January 28th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

some people just don't know when to keep their mouth shut. you'll have to fogive him he's an idiot.

dp   January 28th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Lets all bow to kiss the feet of the new savior Barak Hussien Obama and take our place at the table of Our Good GOD, Government.

Elizabeth   January 28th, 2009 12:18 pm ET

To those who state with such certainty that Biden is a "plagarizer" please do him the courtesy of actually finding out what he did that led to the charge. In one case, he neglected to cite someone on one occasion although there are five or six tapes of his giving proper attribution previously - that's called an absent-minded moment, not plagarism. In fact the "Biden mistake" is cited in many serious works on plagarism as an example of something that does NOT qualify. - The other occasion was his first year in college, or perhaps law school, when he misunderstood rules of citation and failed to properly identify subsequent statements from a work he had cited earlier in the paper. ------ You are showing your own ignorance by beating this **very** dead horse!

Dave   January 28th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Oh Joe Biden...you are a delight

30m-Democrat-voted Clinton then McCain   January 28th, 2009 12:14 pm ET

Joe Biden, the gift that keeps on giving.

Maureen   January 28th, 2009 12:12 pm ET

To the person that made the Palin statement -- at least Joe Biden knew he was making a joke - she still dosen't know what is going on-

Cori from Colorado   January 28th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

Give me a break, lighten up people.

HmmmmH   January 28th, 2009 11:56 am ET

I want to see an apology from the Chief Justice to the American people for flubbing the inauguration ceremony....

Andi   January 28th, 2009 11:55 am ET

Dear VP Biden,
I sooooo needed the Obama Administration to be the "grown-ups."
Please think before you speak. You should know there are people that will take any excuse to discredit you and Pres. Obama. Don't make it easy on them. In the public eye, you MUST evaluate everything you say and do. Save distractions from your work for the important issues, not jokes given in bad taste that can harm. I'm curious as to what your motivation was??? Do you think the Chief Justice wasn't aware of his mistake? And how nervous would ANYONE be given the oath of office to one of the most powerful leaders in the world? Give him a bit of leeway.

David   January 28th, 2009 11:54 am ET

I have to call you out again Mari. There has been all this hate on these blogs the last eight years. This is a free country the last time I checked (for now) and people can voice their opinion as afforded by the Constitution. And here is mine: the two party system is a scam.

Tony in Chattanooga   January 28th, 2009 11:53 am ET

Very tasteless. I just hope this isnt a sign of things to come.
Obama needs to put a leash on his joker pet. It will only make them both look bad.

J   January 28th, 2009 11:53 am ET

Humor is an opinion. President Obama evidently smiled and found humor in Lowery's prayer but not with the Chief Justice ...interesting

Silvia   January 28th, 2009 11:52 am ET

Biden just said what everyone else watching the inauguration would've said. I mean, the whole world was watching and collectively cringed at the delivery of the oath. No harm acknowledging the purple elephant in the room with a little humor. So, to echo alot of people here, lighten up. It was funny.

down to earth MF   January 28th, 2009 11:50 am ET

what a stupid news article...

Karen- Change is coming   January 28th, 2009 11:50 am ET

Biden - The truth shall set you free. I totally agree, he should have read the oath right the first time. I understand President Obama because he's trying to bring everyone together and he's not playing games. But Vice President Biden, you hit it out the park. hahahaha ROFL

David   January 28th, 2009 11:50 am ET

BO wants to sidestep that one all he can. He wants no more light on the fact he did the oath over with no bible. AC.

Martha McDonald   January 28th, 2009 11:50 am ET

That moment was so tense, I think a small joke was warranted. Joe Biden is a jovial, friendly, and likable person. I agree, lighten up!
Who in the hell would take the biggest day in America, have a one minute line of words to swear in the President of the US and FLUB it.
I am astonished that the Supreme Court Chief Justice could not handle this.
He was going in front of MILLIONS and he was unprepared to SWEAR IN A PRESIDENT???????????????? PUHLEEZE
Biden making a joke, lightened the load, people.
Have a laugh. Watch John Stewart and Stephen Colbert. No one remains safe from their jokes. Even John McCain appears on there and laughs at himself.

Dozirulf   January 28th, 2009 11:49 am ET

It was a harmless joke.

Amalraj   January 28th, 2009 11:49 am ET

Hi
I am from India

My Heartly thanks to president OBAMA. He knows how to respect the people.

We can joke but it doesn't hurt any others.
I hatsoff to Joe Biden for his apologies.

America is a Great and decent Country.

dadou   January 28th, 2009 11:49 am ET

the vice prez hes a cool guy leave him alone when you to that stage of life you can pretty much say whatever you want. Once in awhile cracking jokes wont hurt nobody, at least hes a straight shooter.

Jake   January 28th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Sadly, Joe Biden is known for his smart-mouth antics, bellicose and pompastic remarks moreso than he is for his intellect and ability to perform as a statesman. I am a lifelong Republican and stronlgy support Mr. Obama and the new administration, I can only hope, like the rest of you that Joe does not blow up at the wrong time.

Sure, it was a barb at the Chief Justice and I am sure that they made nice like behind closed doors. What if this had been a barb directed at the head of state for a foreign power that could cause serious damage with our economy or worse lead to military action against us. All fun and games until someone launches an ICBM Joe

jon   January 28th, 2009 11:46 am ET

WHO CARES ! ! ! Seriously guys its a joke, people make jokes. It was not racist, sexist, or slanderous in any way. I think it shows a fine human quality that good ol Dick Cheney could never show.

Dennis   January 28th, 2009 11:45 am ET

This is ridiculous – it was a light-heartted joke, and if Chief Justice Roberts was offended – then he is in the wrong business!!!!!

Carolina Democrat   January 28th, 2009 11:45 am ET

Sorry Dan for calling you out. by mistake I meant Sandra in Texas.

Carolina Democrat   January 28th, 2009 11:43 am ET

Dan,

to be fair, I saw news video of a reception immediately after the swering in where Justice Roberts went up to Pres. Obama and shook hands, leaned in and apologized and said it was "my fault". Very easy to read his lips. And Pres. Obama obviously told him not to worry about it.

So, let's move on and remind Joe, if it doesn't bother Pres. Obama, it shouldn't bother you and us.

rena   January 28th, 2009 11:43 am ET

My goodness! This is not news. People please have a little humor in life. Stop taking everything to heart or to judgement. Maybe most of you need to put a little laughter in your life; the bible does say that it is like medicine to the soul. It does the heart good, and by reading some of these posts, some of you can most certainly use a little laughter to change that evil heart.

When are we going to become real examples to our children? Will the real adults stand up? Will the real parents take a stand? Make a difference by showing unity and love towards one another.

bob whitford   January 28th, 2009 11:41 am ET

This is NEWS? The economy is in the toilet, and Ed Henry has nothing better to report on? Knock, knock .. Ed?

Anyone home?

Journalism, and journalistic standards have been replaced by entertainment at CNN and most everywhere else.

The sheep that follow these 'news organizations' get just what they deserve.

my13   January 28th, 2009 11:41 am ET

Hahahhaha!!! Wait...why did he need to apologize? The whole nation saw Mr. Smart guy mess it up??

REW   January 28th, 2009 11:39 am ET

Gee, it's not like he did something horrible and spell "potato" wrong!

If Biden was a Republican, his comment would have been blown completely out of proportion and his IQ would be the story of the week. Instead, the "unbiased" members of the press chuckle and move on.

REW   January 28th, 2009 11:38 am ET

Gee, it's not like he did something horrible like spell "potato" wrong!

If Biden was a Republican, his comment would have been blown completely out of proportion and his IQ would be the story of the week. Instead, the "unbiased" members of the press chuckle and move on.

Kelly   January 28th, 2009 11:38 am ET

What is the big deal with the joke?

videodrome   January 28th, 2009 11:36 am ET

Okay, I don't see anything terribly funny about Biden's "joke".
Yeah.
But I doh't see anything terribly offensive either.
Can we try to focus on some other issues right now - like fixing this miserable economy?

William   January 28th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Re. comment by Mark Lodes (January 28th, 2009 4:04 am ET)
"..... You should hear my Republican buddies talk seriously about how Obama may not actually "be the president" because he flubbed the lines."

You mean the way liberals cried like spoiled children when Gore lost the 2000 election, and repeatedly claimed (seriously) for 8 years that President Bush was therefore illegitimate? Apparently you possess the two traits that pretty much define the typical liberal – ignorance and hypocrisy.

Chris   January 28th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Entirely appropriate to apologize. Joking in the first place was in bad taste and wrong.

Raul   January 28th, 2009 11:32 am ET

Funny joke, it made sense for the vp to poke fun at Justice Roberts. It would have been in poorer taste for the President to do so. Joe did the right thing, privately.

Mike   January 28th, 2009 11:31 am ET

Come on folks. It was funny. I'm sure the Chief Justice thought so, too.

james   January 28th, 2009 11:27 am ET

Just one of many that VP Biden will make. Hey! Biden's got a reputation to live up too.

Dan   January 28th, 2009 11:24 am ET

We all need to loosen up. This was a very understandable quip. We all take ourselves too serious. Let's enjoy our differences and let's start laughing at ourselves. This constant inability to see humor in ourselves and others is sad.

Sandra in Texas   January 28th, 2009 11:24 am ET

I'm sorry–did I miss the apology from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court for messing up a simple oath for one of the most Historic Events in our Government??? so what if Joe the VP made a joke!

Lisa in Ohio   January 28th, 2009 11:23 am ET

Joe needs to get on board with President Obama. These petty, snide, uncalled for remarks cause nothing but dissention. Has Joe not been listening to Obama at ALL? Biden is a time bomb and Obama knows it. Thanks to Obama for making Biden apologize ... because we know that's how the meeting went down. For all the change and good Obama is trying to accomplish, there's Blow Joe acting a fool. Obama needs to get him in line but the question is – can Joe even act professional? I've never seen it.
I'm a republican and I stand behing President Obama 110%. I think it's way past time for Change – including everyone! I respect the way he DEMANDS respect and I hope he continues to hold everyone accountable. Throw the rep/dem out the door and work together!

doug rice   January 28th, 2009 11:23 am ET

If my memory serves me correctly, Biden is an accomplished "memorizer", usually others' writings, having plagerized a number of times in the past.

Carl   January 28th, 2009 11:19 am ET

The reason the joke bombed was because Obama did not think it was funny. People naturally look to the most powerful individual in the room for cues to laugh. This is not necessarily power based on position, but power based on the person's presence. If Obama had made the comment or if he had even cracked a smile, everyone would have had a good laugh. You can see this effect by just noticing how crowds of people always laugh at the smallest off-hand comments that Obama makes, whether they are truly funny or not.

Nilesh   January 28th, 2009 11:17 am ET

This is making a mountain out of a mole hill....the fact is that Roberts screwed up and Biden made a harmless joke about it. Big deal....let it go, media!

Mari   January 28th, 2009 11:13 am ET

JOE BIDEN....... you are the Vice President now, STOP with the jokes already!

We love you, just relax.

To the far-right:

Are you people REALLY Christian??? Because ALL I read from your comments on these blogs is hate, lies, fear and division.
Shame on you!

California Gold   January 28th, 2009 11:12 am ET

If you think before you let your thoughts roll out of your mouth like a gum ball in a machine, you don't have to apologize for saying something stupid and offensive.

JackH   January 28th, 2009 11:11 am ET

And the press thought PALIN was unqualified.....

Look who does look like a pig with lipstick ===> Biden

Eugene   January 28th, 2009 11:10 am ET

This is so refreshing after eight years of unrepentant killing and then unapologized for jokes about missing WMD's under Bush's desk.

Melissa   January 28th, 2009 11:09 am ET

Chill. He was joking....

Kurt C.   January 28th, 2009 11:08 am ET

The last thing Biden needs to do is make jokes about other people for making any mistake.

"Stand up Chuck, Stand up!!"

Ray Fisher   January 28th, 2009 11:08 am ET

Everybody should be less picky and focus upon important things. I thought it was funny that our chief justice flubbed an oath, no harm done just proves he is human. Get over it!!!

Roger   January 28th, 2009 11:05 am ET

Biden is and has always been in the wrong profession. As a VP he is a disgrace and I hope he doesn't distract too much attention from the President.. If he was Secretary of State he could be worse.

Alberta   January 28th, 2009 11:05 am ET

I think Joe is great. We need tome light heartedness in the White House.

Eric   January 28th, 2009 11:03 am ET

So the rules are this:
Republican mis-speaks: huge blunder, buffoon, racist, whatever
Democrat mis-speaks: "Joe being Joe", "it was an honest mistake", "he's not normally like that", "let it go already" etc.

Not that there's any media (or blogger) bias or anything...

William in Texas   January 28th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Biden does tend to talk out of line but at least he is honest unlike the previous VP.

Jennifer   January 28th, 2009 11:01 am ET

It was a joke....a private talk for that? Seems like a bit much.

Jeremy   January 28th, 2009 10:57 am ET

lol it's hillarious taht anyone even thinks this is a big deal. Why should he apologise over a joke? Come on people...

zaphod2000   January 28th, 2009 10:56 am ET

Roberts goofed on an extremely important oath but Biden doesn't have to apologize for a little joke.
This is almost like the last insult from the bush administration . . . hey Roberts, make sure you rush through it and mess it up . . . good boy! Now go sit on the corner.

Sue   January 28th, 2009 10:56 am ET

I'm so glad Biden is VP, on one hand, his sarcasm is going to distract the whole nation while on the other, Obama's deals are managing trillions of dollars. I love the Media afterall.

email4kh   January 28th, 2009 10:55 am ET

APOLOGIZE ? !!!
FOR WHAT? ROBERTS SCREWED UP.
GET OVER IT.

Wally   January 28th, 2009 8:27 am ET

I understand professionalism but I think too much was made of this. The less-than obscure "re-swearing in" did more to extend the talk about the Oath flub than did VP Biden's joke.

lstrm   January 28th, 2009 4:46 am ET

Funny in private between two close friends. Not so funny when doing official business. VP Biden needs to learn when and where or the apologies won't be so trivial.

Matthew Houston   January 28th, 2009 4:44 am ET

The point of the ceremony is the meaning of the oath, not the acting and memorization skills of the participants.

That being said, I think Obama and Biden are right to correct the behavior of themselves and their staff. It sets a good precedent of respect and accountability. This is exactly the way the tone gets changed in Washington.

daniel in California!   January 28th, 2009 4:11 am ET

That JOE, so funny I'm suprised he even apologized!!!
But come on it was funny!!!
People chil out!!!
Should we praise his joke, or condem it?
neither!
Let Joe be Joe.
We should be glad there's only 1 baffoon not 2, exmp.
Bush and chainey!!!!
As long as bidden dosent shoot anyone were ok! :]
Obama rules!!!

Mark Lodes   January 28th, 2009 4:04 am ET

He may be the Chief Justice of the United States of America, but he certainly had that coming. Go get 'em Joe. Everyone needs a good comical moment these days. It is a dark and cold world out there. I thought watching the moment you and President Obama swore in the new Treasury Secretary was a dignified and well done swearing in, in sharp contrast to the poorly delivered Presidential Oath of Office by Chief Justice Roberts. You should hear my Republican buddies talk seriously about how Obama may not actually "be the president" because he flubbed the lines. They fail to acknowledge Robert's role in mis-delivering the Oath. Watch for traps like this. The Karl Rove machine still sputters on.

daniel in California!   January 28th, 2009 4:01 am ET

That JOE, so funny I'm suprised he even apologized!!!
But come on it was funny!!!
People chil out!!!
Should we praise his joke, or condem it?
neither!
Let Joe be Joe.
We should be glad there's only 1 baffoon not 2, exmp.
Bush and chainey!!!!
As long pa bidden dosent shoot anyone were ok! :]
Obama rules!!!

TiCNN   January 28th, 2009 3:56 am ET

I hope the discussion had once main question by Biden for Richards – how the hell did you mess that up?

And people please, Obama to me did not come off as angry at Biden. I feel Obama simply doesnt want to give others the opportunity or any reason to character attack him. Its being smart.

Biden should of not apologized, Richard's stumbling was and is inexcusable. Joe was sticking up for his bud, simple as that and very American.

Alicia   January 28th, 2009 3:47 am ET

My impression was that Roberts did not pause at the intuitive place where I (and Obama apparently) would have expected him to, but rushed past it. He did seem to be hurrying the oath at the outset, for whatever reason - but apart from that, he failed to rest at the first phrase, the natural resting place, and Obama began his repetition wihle Roberts was still underway, which caused the subsequent confusion. Here is what I was expecting:

I, Barack Obama (pause for repetition)

do solemnly swear (pause for repetition)

that I will faithfully execute (pause for repetition)

the office of the President of the United States (pause for repetition)

and will, to the best of my ability, (pasue for repetition)

preserve, protect and defend, (pause for repetition)

the Constitution of the United States

Instead, Roberts (if memory serves me) spoke thus:

I, Barack Obama, do solemnly swear (pause for repetition)

and that was the initial gaffe. I think Obama may have been subconsciously worried about just when Roberts was going to pause, if at all....

Roberts does not have Obama's exquisitely sensitive ear for the language, and that is where the problem arose. They were not linguistically and metrically, singing off the same sheet.

Army of 1   January 28th, 2009 3:23 am ET

Everyone seem to enjoy the remark by the VP. Quit joking around and get busy with the issues in hand. Fun & games are over kids, get to work...

Thierry   January 28th, 2009 3:09 am ET

Chris,

It seems you don't even have a clue... Have you ever read the Oath of Office? Obama knew it so well, that's why he hesitated to repeat what the Chief Justice Roberts recited to him. I would advise you to read it and ask question when things seems to be absurd to you.

SF Serg   January 28th, 2009 3:03 am ET

Apology accepted from President Obama. That's where the apology is coming from, not from Joe Biden. Ahhh, Biden's a good guy and a competent foreign policy expert at that. He just opens his mouth too much at times, or simply forgets to close it. Joe's just going to have shut it and grow up a little, as President Obama has made it clear that his Presidency will forgo childishness and focus on the issues. Sorry Joe Biden.

OMG   January 28th, 2009 2:58 am ET

WAAAA WAAA WAAA WAAA.

Thats all I hear from the republicans these days.

Whats the point to even work with them?

Oteast   January 28th, 2009 2:55 am ET

I'd love to see the snide and cutting remarks that Sarah Barracuda would have made. Yeah Biden can gaffe, but he's pretty harmless and well meaning.

Joe   January 28th, 2009 2:52 am ET

A vice president doesn't make that kind of joke. He should consider himself as a public man, not a private man anymore. The eyes of the world is on him.

It is unfortunate for him that he is worse than a child. Do you think that making a joke and after that say that "I'm sorry" is enough?

Please remember that you are the vice president of the USA, the leading country in the world.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

George   January 28th, 2009 2:42 am ET

Well like always had this been a Republican making this type of joke all the Democrats would cry foul.

Democrats love to dish out insults but cannot take them. Biden is a nut job so you Democrats better get ready for more of this from him.

But don't get upset when people point out what Biden is. I'm sure in the end all of you love him just like your lord the mighty Obama boy.

Army of 1   January 28th, 2009 2:42 am ET

More things to come from VP.

Ivan   January 28th, 2009 2:33 am ET

Joe Biden has a self-deprecating smile and a genuine sense of light-heartedness that's refreshing. Previous criminal was a tragic joke as second-in-command. I detested him, still do, as does most of the country.
It's ok, Joe...teach 'em a bit about being real!

Garrett   January 28th, 2009 2:33 am ET

At least he didn't shoot someone with a shotgun...

Brian O   January 28th, 2009 2:25 am ET

Obama messed the "Oath" up as much...as Roberts did...Obama jumped the gun twice, beginning his line, before Roberts had finished reciting the line...really Obama's nervousness got the best of him & Roberts...without a telepromter Obama's not very smooth ya know

Holly   January 28th, 2009 2:18 am ET

Bring back the good old days of vice presidents who know how to conduct themselves appropriately – like shooting their friends in the face!

Jon   January 28th, 2009 2:17 am ET

Yep, it didn't take long. Joe the gaffe machine continues to entertain us after decades of ridiculous statements. And yet the media concentrates on Tina Fey, acting like Palin said what her SNL counterpart said. Ridiculous. How about commenting on the racist clip where Biden says he can't walk into a dunkin donuts without seeing Indians? Where the hell was the coverage of that?

Dare Nigeria   January 28th, 2009 2:17 am ET

It was only a joke, people! Just laugh it off.

Maria   January 28th, 2009 2:11 am ET

I do believe that it was Obama that messed up the Oath, not the Chief Justice. Regardless, it's a free country and Biden can crack jokes as much as he likes, and also apologize when and if he likes. That's what's so great about this Country. Anyone who thinks ill of Biden for cracking a joke is very unpatriotic. He should have cracked the joke at Obama instead though, since Obama was the one that goofed.

Robert   January 28th, 2009 2:03 am ET

Apologized? Why? What is America coming to? It was a good joke!

Eric   January 28th, 2009 1:58 am ET

It was an attempt at dry humor. Let it go people. Worry about something that matters. There are plenty of choices.

Nick   January 28th, 2009 1:58 am ET

He should apologize for apologizing for such a weak joke.

CJG   January 28th, 2009 1:53 am ET

Why take ourselves so seriously.....Joe is a fun guy , so lighten up Pres O.....Roberts screwed up , Biden is a delight, his eyes even twinkle , with what is going on in this world , a MOMENT of making fun at ourselves just makes the news more bareable.
We just have bigger fish to fry .
Go ahead Joe makes us laugh......Obama make us better!

Nothing ever Changes   January 28th, 2009 1:48 am ET

Who cares who made the mistake, people are making a big deal out of it. The oath is a formality, according to the Constitution President Obama became President at noon, regardless of the oath. It should not matter whether or not Obama interrupted the Chief Justice, this man should know the oath and be able to administer the oath regardless of interruptions, this is what he gets trying to do it from memory.

don in kansas   January 28th, 2009 1:46 am ET

It is a good thing that Justice Roberts swore Obama in a second time. He needed the practice for 2013.

robby10001   January 28th, 2009 1:45 am ET

I love all the critics of Biden's bad joke here –NOT. Talk about grasping for straws to be critical. You Republicans lost. Repeat, YOU REPUBLICANS LOST. NOW THAT'S FUNNY!!!! HA HA, HAHAHAHAHAH!!

Proud American   January 28th, 2009 1:43 am ET

Funny and true. There you go Joe. Gotta love it.

Rini   January 28th, 2009 1:41 am ET

While Roberts did make a mistake, Obama was the first to misspeak and probably threw Roberts off after that. Obama knew he was partly to blame for a less-than-smooth oath of office, and that's probably why he wasn't too happy with Biden's joke. But I doubt Justice Roberts was offended by the joke– no big deal.

Thomas   January 28th, 2009 1:35 am ET

Love is never having to say your sorry !

" Dick Cheney "

Ian   January 28th, 2009 1:30 am ET

Thanks Joe!

Someone who speaks their mind. How can that be offensive? Learn from your mistakes and laugh at them. Stuff happens; both VP Biden's and CJ Robert's comments were part of the humor of humanity. I look forward to reading about people who are flawed because they are too sincere. Keep it up.

Dan   January 28th, 2009 1:27 am ET

Sheer boredom made me check in on this comments section. People, I have one thing to say - get a life. If this is the kind of asinine nonsense you obsess over, you're in pathetic shape. That you obsess over it this thoroughly should tell you why your elected leaders don't give a rip what you have to say. I wouldn't care about the opinions of people this vacuous either. God.

take it easy   January 28th, 2009 1:22 am ET

why a good sense of humor is not admitted here ?
the joke was great
unfortunately Justice Roberts cannot laugh at his mistake here,
human mistake but serious enough

Dan   January 28th, 2009 1:16 am ET

To all you ignorant liberals, Obama actually screwed up first, talking over Roberts before he finished the first sentence of the oath. If you are going to joke about Roberts making a mistake after that, at least acknowledge that Obama screwed up first.

Rush L. and Sean H.   January 28th, 2009 1:15 am ET

I say we go ahead and start impeachment proceedings on President Obama for getting us into this economic mess in less than a week.
We knew he could not do the job and Vice-President Biden should go also because he is destroying the office of the Vice-President that the honorable Richard Cheney held to a higher standard than anyone in history.

who cares, the supreme ct. is a joke   January 28th, 2009 1:09 am ET

Roberts and his other conservative thugs weigh down our society

Justanobserver   January 28th, 2009 1:05 am ET

Biden makes me sick! Ombomba is and all his followers/supporters need to wipe the slobber off their jowls and start doing something besides having their pictures taken and their feet kissed. What:? no 100% approval in the polls? Ohh, too bad. It's all downhill from here.

Crook   January 28th, 2009 1:04 am ET

He stumbled on the oath... It must be a conspiracy!

gmrobins   January 28th, 2009 1:03 am ET

The degree of pettiness in this incident is unbelievable. If any adult, Chief Justices included, has skin so thin they are offended by this type of light-hearted teasing, they are too sensitive for a high ranking governmental position. Smile and keep working, for goodness sake. No appology needed.

tk in IL   January 28th, 2009 1:03 am ET

Open mouth, insert big toe......how typical. He needs to step away from the microphone very quickly and stay gone.

recnepS   January 28th, 2009 1:02 am ET

Give it a break already. The man screwed up "The Oath." Regardless if he did, President Obama was officially the POTUS at 12 pm 1/20/29 with or without the OATH.

JANICE   January 28th, 2009 12:57 am ET

HEY CHRIS, THE PRESDENT OBAMO,KNEW JUSTIC ROBERTS , HAD GOOF UP, BUT HE JUST WENT WITH THE FLOW. I WAS PROUD OBAMO , THE WAY HE HANDLE IT!!!!!!!!

bill   January 28th, 2009 12:54 am ET

After 9/11, this country lost its sense of humor.

recnepS   January 28th, 2009 12:52 am ET

This isn't news. You should be reporting on what is the VP's role in the administration.

AP from Illinois   January 28th, 2009 12:48 am ET

The same people who gave us 'Barack the Magic Negro' can't take a joke that is far less offensive... At least Biden apologized. Any of you Republicans want to step up to the plate to apologize for Rush?

Sam Adams   January 28th, 2009 12:47 am ET

There are rumors that the "Bible" was not real that Obama was sworn in on. What a Joke. Couldn't even remember the oath of office. How is our #1 boy going to uphold it?

JAE   January 28th, 2009 12:45 am ET

Biden is a joke. Seems the norm, he and his wife open mouth and insert foot.

Michelle   January 28th, 2009 12:44 am ET

My god, lighten up! It's just words. This isn't even a news story.

Mernoush   January 28th, 2009 12:43 am ET

It was just a joke , Biden didin't need to apologize for that. I recommend everybody who thinks Biden is a joke to watch Bush's press conferences once again , it helps them to figure out who is really a joke.

Sydney Saidyan   January 28th, 2009 12:40 am ET

If there is anything Vice President Biden can learn from his predecessor, Vice President Cheney, is to be more cautious when choosing his words.

If VP Cheney had the same habit as VP Biden, who seems unable to filter his thoughts before they are verbalized as spoken words, we might have known some of the "secrets” of the previous administration.

Mr. Vice President, as the saying goes: Watch your thoughts; they become your words. Watch your words; they become your actions. Watch your actions; they become your habits. Watch your habits; they become your character.

Proud Independent Voter, who proudly donated to, campaigned for, and voted for President Obama and Vice President Biden

Jose   January 28th, 2009 12:39 am ET

It was a funny joke. Who cares. Better than having a secretive and scary VP like Cheney. I think Obama and Biden compliment each other well. It's good to have a sense of humor people. So quit being such whiny and bitter babies. Sheez!

Antranik   January 28th, 2009 12:34 am ET

which two men?

Chris   January 28th, 2009 12:31 am ET

I just wanted to point out that Obama made the first mistake in the oath. He started talking in the very first part before Roberts finished what he was supposed to say. If you doubt this, watch how it was administered to Biden then Obama. Obama didn't let Roberts finish the first line. I think that after that point any mistake Roberts makes is understandable, if not forgivable.

Danny   January 28th, 2009 12:30 am ET

JUDICIARY is not always perfect. Chief Justice flunks at the time of Presidential oath. However, we need to Amend US Constitution, because Criticizing Judiciary is Contempt of Court, which gives Judiciary Immunity and Protection from any Good Faith and Fair Criticism, which is Absolute Anarchy. Let Judiciary by open to Criticism and Let Judges be open to Transparency. IN SUM – JUDICIARY IS MORE CORRUPT THAN EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATURE.

Russ   January 28th, 2009 12:23 am ET

Biden, showing that he has always and continues to be a complete moron and can't stop runnning his mouth.

Ryan   January 28th, 2009 12:20 am ET

Oh come on. He made a little joke. I'm sure none of you ever made a joke about something this small and trivial. Grow up. I am glad our new VP has some sort of sense of humor. The only reason we are hearing this is because of a few upset Republican supporters that want to make light of something, and this is all they could come up with. We wouldn't even be hearing it if it was Cheney that made the remarks. You are just a bunch of people who have yet to outgrow your diapers. GROW UP!

Anonymous   January 28th, 2009 12:15 am ET

Biden is an idiot

John   January 28th, 2009 12:09 am ET

I think some critics of Biden need to get a life along with a Clue!!!!

Funny when the last VP Told someone from the other party to F-OFF
I didn't hear these same people that got a phony outrage about Biden
demand a apology from Cheney. I like Biden because Obama needs
a tough talking,take no bleep from Neo cons type in his team...

Rock on Joe!!!!

Janet Dagan   January 28th, 2009 12:08 am ET

hey, where's your humor?? loosen up everybody!! joe biden has his heart and smarts in the right place...everyone else: take a deeeeeeeeeeep breath...

TERRY BROWN   January 28th, 2009 12:07 am ET

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Steve   January 28th, 2009 12:06 am ET

I love all these folks saying that Biden is a "joke".

Apparently, they preferred the war criminal.

Leslie   January 28th, 2009 12:04 am ET

He told the truth what is the problem? Roberts made a fool of himself just like the man who hired him....Bush.

steve   January 28th, 2009 12:04 am ET

believe it or not, i like a politician who can joke around, and tell the truth for once. Its like the polar opposite of our previous VP....darth vader.

Laughing   January 28th, 2009 12:00 am ET

Next thing you know he will be spelling potato with an "e" or saying he invented the Internet.

Trang, Fremont, CA   January 27th, 2009 11:58 pm ET

Despite the many gaffes that Joe Biden made on Capitol Hill, many people do like him. He's harmless. He's friendly. He meant well. I am happy w/ my VP. Heck, he makes jokes to even out Obama's seriousness.

Rob   January 27th, 2009 11:51 pm ET

Biden is nothing more than a loud mouthed ignorant idiot.
Obama choose him and that is where he lost my support, however I must tel everyone, I watched Biden open his mouth and thought Obamas reaction was great. Very professional and is probably wondering the same as I am, why did he choose Biden?

bob in LA   January 27th, 2009 11:49 pm ET

When are politicians going to grow up. A joke at a flub is just a natural reaction. No apology neeeded

Gayle Williams   January 27th, 2009 11:49 pm ET

that was funny as hell! where is our sense of humor these days?

Not Don Rickles   January 27th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

Vice President Joe Biden is now second in command to President Barack Obama; therefore, I do think that VP Biden has to act the part and show abit more decorum.

g miller   January 27th, 2009 11:26 pm ET

It doesn't seem like most of you actually HEARD the words at the inauguration. Obama jumped the gun, probably causing Roberts to say the words out of sequnece. B.F.D.

A Virginian   January 27th, 2009 11:25 pm ET

This is something that the Republican, would never apologizes for. Remember this people FREEDOM OF SPEECH. Something Republicans say all the time when it comes Rush.

JW   January 27th, 2009 11:20 pm ET

Biden says moronic things because he is a moron. He has a long history of lying about his accomplishments, stealing the intellectual work of others, and just plain being stupid. This and and the tax cheat was the best Obama could come up with. Please, just keep the "change"!

Abraham Lincoln   January 27th, 2009 11:20 pm ET

If anyone else on the job, playfully, jabbed a coworker, who made a mistake, would we be tripping?

CaliGirl   January 27th, 2009 11:20 pm ET

Shirley in California January 27th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

He and his wife both acted very foolishly during the inauguration. Please VP Biden think BEFORE you speak.
______________________________________________

How so Shirley?

SueB   January 27th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

Biden can't speak and sticks his foot in his mouth frequently. I'm less then excited about him being VP. But any idiot should have seen this comment for what it was – a light hearted joke. Worry about the damaging things he said, not harmless jokes.

boongirl   January 27th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

Well, i thought it was hilarious!!!. Though now we know what Obama's "shut up" face looks like :) .

beth   January 27th, 2009 11:18 pm ET

Come on Biden...control your tongue...you are smarter than this and you are making the administration look a little foolish with your thoughtless comments...it is time for you to bring your experience to the table and begin helping the new administration...and stop diverting the attention from the critical topics.

OK Either Way   January 27th, 2009 11:16 pm ET

OK that he apologized.
OK if hadn't apologized.
It's just not a big deal.

Roberts screwed up. Having someone make public sport is bound to sting. So a well-mannered person might apologize. But a well-mannered person also might not apologize. Roberts is a heavy-weight . . . he's responsible for his own screw-up . . . and his screw-up did mar a great moment in history which should have been picture-perfect.

Apologize or don't apologize . . . either way it's OK.

Beech   January 27th, 2009 11:13 pm ET

no need to apologize for jokes, mr biden. jokes are supposed to be funny. and you are funny.

Dan   January 27th, 2009 11:12 pm ET

I think Justice Roberts needs to chill.

Dan from Philly   January 27th, 2009 11:11 pm ET

Christ, can't anyone take a joke anymore??

tim   January 27th, 2009 11:11 pm ET

Joe Biden is turning out to be the next George W.

Mercy   January 27th, 2009 11:10 pm ET

Wow! Its sad that a VP can't make a joke. He isn't even making it up.... its a fact Roberts blundered. Its okay to poke fun at that.

Tom   January 27th, 2009 11:06 pm ET

"What would these people be saying if the former VP made a joke about a democrat mistake?
Sounds like a double standard."

I don't think Cheney has a right to say anything. He shot a guy in the face and tried redefining the role of the VP by saying he wasn't a member of the executive branch.

HouseDiva   January 27th, 2009 11:05 pm ET

old news...who cares?

Sakimasg   January 27th, 2009 11:03 pm ET

Hey Rush or is it Ruse never the less I do not believe that it’s the Precedents intention is to get rid of the Republican Party; need I remind you that America is a diverse country. People have different natural opinions convictions and come to different conclusions.
Although the Republican strategy on how to make America a more perfect country and negligent attempt to make all its citizenry included hit bottom, something’s of the conservatism agenda does help all Americans. Fear of Equality and Equal Opportunity and We The People not being one of them is still guided by your un-natural non cognizant mentality.

mimi   January 27th, 2009 11:02 pm ET

Cmooon.......... we need some humor here now, Bush is out of office, we need someone to make us laugh and make fun off.

JIm in Asheville   January 27th, 2009 11:00 pm ET

To Michael- VP Biden is one of our "best foreign policy guys." Are you serious? He has been on the wrong side of history since at least the 1980s. Check out his positions during the Cold War. Naive and dangerous. The latest was his silly idea of dividing Iraq into three separate parts. He may be an authority in some areas, but I'm sorry, foreign policy isn't one of them. It's only because of tenure.

bk   January 27th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

People talk about Palin and they elected this idiot for VP and a president who hires a tax cheat, a lobbyist, and a guy who sends dead fish to people. Palin is more honest than any of these idiots.

Obama gets earmarks for the hospital his wife worked at and she gets her salary doubled. You people need your head examined.

thuff7   January 27th, 2009 10:56 pm ET

Joe Biden suffers from terminal foot-in-mouth disease. I'm surprised it took him so long between the time he was sworn in until the time he had to apologize to someone in a high office in the country. In this case, it was the Chief Justice of the United States, the same man who was grilled by Biden on the Senate Judiciary committee. Biden made a fool of himself there as well. The real harm will come when he has to apologize to some foreign diplomat in delicate negotiations. Please President Obame, do *not* send him to the Mid East!

JGR   January 27th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

If President Bush had made this lousy joke, you'd never hear the end of it– the lame talk show host would be rerunning this misstep ad nauseam on late night shows. Perhaps Joe Biden should follow the example of Dick Cheney and fight terrorism undercover. Vice President Cheney helped us not be attacked after 911 and deserves our thanks.

Get Real, Boise, ID   January 27th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

HA HA HA! Look at that facial expression of his!

Allie   January 27th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

Honestly, the accompanying picture is a great deal funnier than his "joke"...Old people sure can be funny...looking.

Warren   January 27th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

Seriously, what's the big deal? Should we impeach him because he made a comment that meant no harm but, apologized anyway? Lighten up people.

Why so serious?

Boni T.   January 27th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

Come on! After all, Roberts did mess up; he blew the lines he should have memorized thoroughly before heading out to do his job. Get off Biden's back.

TyWebb   January 27th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

Who cares? Biden will be a good VP. The world needs to get over itself. No one can say anything anymore without it being a crisis.

Joe Rocks!   January 27th, 2009 10:49 pm ET

Behind every joke is an element of truth –
How can you NOT toss a jab when the chief effin' justice of the Supreme Court (appointed by W) screws up the Inaugural oath... 35 words he's supposed to have commited to memory?
Rarely is the questioned asked: Is our children learning?" — from Florence, S.C., Jan. 11, 2000; or even if they can remember their lines in front of a crowd...

EC   January 27th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

Hey, I'm not mad at you VP Biden, I thought the flubb was funny too. However, remember in the future, there is a time and place for everything.

Rob   January 27th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

It was kinda funny, I sure Roberts can laugh at himself too.

DC IN DC   January 27th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

i AM AN EXCELLANT DRIVER !!

New Orleans White Teacher   January 27th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

It might be interesting for some of you to know how some African-American children in New Orleans understood the original mistakes (plural) by the Chief Justice. And, yes, many watched that part of the inauguration. First, they wanted to know if Obama had made a mistake. The answer being, "Not really." What else could the man have done after the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court confused things starting with not sticking to the normal pause after "I, Barack Hussein Obama." Second, they wanted to know if the Chief Justice deliberately messed up the oath because he was swearing in an African-American president. I had never thought of that possibility and was saddened to know that would occur to six-and-seven-year-old children. My explanation was that any of us can make mistakes when we get nervous, but how telling is it that children who were toddlers during Katrina do not trust the white members of their federal government? Get over the little stuff, people. There's a lot of work to be done that none of you even know.

J.C.   January 27th, 2009 10:45 pm ET

Both men are good men. Why do some of us have to paint either of them otherwise?

bsmith171   January 27th, 2009 10:43 pm ET

biden is EXACTLY like cheney.

BOTH got FIVE draft deferments while normal american young boys were having to fight another one of their political wars.

Lost in Texas FOREVER   January 27th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

have we really gotten this sensitive that we can't have a harmless joke every now and then? OMG you should read some of the "jokes" on the internet about President Obama alone. The only difference between the Obama jokes and the Bush jokes I've seen so far is that all the Obama jokes are based on race. And trust me sometimes that ISN'T funny.

Judy from PA   January 27th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

I agree with some of you. When it was Bush making a blunder it is ok to make fun of him, when it is Biden, oh, cut him a break. I am tired of the double standards. Obama said people should stop listening to Rush Limbaugh. When in reality they should stop listening to Keith Olberman and Rachel Maddow. I was disgusted listening to them talk about the now former President Bush.

Jerry   January 27th, 2009 10:41 pm ET

It was funny as hell, and he obviously didn't mean anything by it. Anyone who says otherwise is a complete fool.

Richard Larson   January 27th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

There are very few occasions in which a little levity isn't useful. I thought it was an honest attempt to relieve a stressful situation. As far as Obama is concerned; if he cannot find it within himself to first, appreciate the merits of humor, and, 2, that if he, Obama, doesn't want to live to be a wise old man, he is just going to have to unbend a little even if it seems to him that the occasion is serious.

Man is the only created being that has a sense of humor. Yes, there are times, and places, but to have to grovel and apologize is beyond good sense.

midwest mom   January 27th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

oh brother...Joe didn't need to apologize....people need to lighten up! there is alot of scarey stuff out there...find a reason to smile and laugh!

Christopher Parsons   January 27th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

Merely a demonstration of a quick wit. Exactly who does this remark offend? I would prefer more elected officials exhibit some evidence of ongoing brain activity. Given the country's dire current conditions, the challenges we face, why the focus on an inconsequential remark by a vice president on his first day in office? For those who claim this demonstrates that he is not qualified to be Vice President, would you then agree Ronald Reagan was an unfit President on the basis of his "We bomb Russia in 5 minutes" remark?

John E. Vargo   January 27th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

I would put Mr. Biden on a short leash – IMMEDIATELY!

Brian   January 27th, 2009 10:34 pm ET

If Roberts was going to be hurt by peoples comments he could have, you know, not screwed up.

Lighten up, have a little fun, smiling is good for your health

Melissa from New Orleans   January 27th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

Eh. People need to stop being so sensitive. It was just a silly joke.

Adam   January 27th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

I fail to understand how this is newsworthy, let alone how anybody could care about this. It was a JOKE people. Geez. it's not like he said something offensive about CJ Roberts' mother or wife or anything off color about him personally. Heck, it is funny that the Chief Justice screwed up the presidential oath on inauguration day. It's not like the CJ is a bafoon – mistakes just happen and the VP was just poking a little fun. Lighten up people...there are larger things in life to be concerned with.

sense of humor in WA   January 27th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

Lighten up. It was funny.

pot-kettle-black   January 27th, 2009 10:32 pm ET

Sarah January 27th, 2009 8:01 pm ET

When did we all get so SENSITIVE?!?!?!

Isn't this what you people wanted? PC is going to kill this country like it is doing to the UK.

You all are bad mouthing the VP like you've bad mouthed Bush.

obamessiah will fix everything, no one else needed to help.

Must....not....upset.......the........obamessiah

God, please save the U.S. from these people. Please.

Jason   January 27th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

What if instead of pausing during the oath, President Obama said “Don’t Roberts Me, Chief!”?

Larry in TX   January 27th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

Justice Roberts managed to mess up a 38 word oath of office. The fact that an unblemished record of this historic occasion will never exist is of far greater importance than an off-the-cuff remark by Joe Biden.

Bill in Albuquerque   January 27th, 2009 10:27 pm ET

Who Cares!

Steve (the real one)   January 27th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

Enough January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET
Wise to apologize & keep working toward peace. Narcissists can't take a joke.
--------------------–
You do realize the President did not find the joke to be funny. Could the President be a narcissist ? According to your post..... YES HE CAN!

What?   January 27th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

so Biden said something stupid? so whats new ?

Joe   January 27th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

What do you expect from a guy who did not know who the president was during the Depression or that the word jobs has 4 letters and not 3.
Not the sharpest tool in the tool shed.

Jim   January 27th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

That's nothing.....Biden's foot's in his mouth so much his toes and tonsils have become good friends. Unfortunately from now on when he says something stupid (which, if history is any indicator, should be at least once a week), it'll be front page news.

Marko   January 27th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

Hubris hubris hubris....Republicans do it, Democrats do it.....Everyone is going to dig their own hole and we all lose. No lobbyists in the White House unless they are the ones Obama likes....close Gitmo and put the bad guys ....where?.....think of the damage one released Gitmo prisoner could do to.....everything....
Two years from now when everyone is sick of all the know-it-all-ism....and the House goes red again...it will be deja vu all over again...

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

Behind every joke is an element of truth –
How can you NOT toss a jab at the chief effin' justice of the Supreme Court (appointed by W) when he screws up the Inaugural oath... 35 words he's supposed to have commited to memory?
Rarely is the questioned asked: Is our children learning?" —Florence, S.C., Jan. 11, 2000; or even if they can remember their lines in front of a crowd...

susie   January 27th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

Thank goodness his wife, Jill, talked him out of taking the Sec. of State job. He could start WWIII with his mouth!

Janice   January 27th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

It should be Justice Roberts apologizing to the American people and President Obama. Joe said what a lot of people were thinking!

tom   January 27th, 2009 10:10 pm ET

For all those comparing 8 years of Bush "mispeaks" to the flubbed oath on Robert's/Obama's part you need to sit back and add up all of the retarded things bush has said over the years and then count his memorable speeches. Then do the same for Obama. Do you get my point. These people are human, they are going to stumble on their words, they are on tv 24/7. But you cannot compare bush to obama on public speaking.

John   January 27th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

Well, at least Biden doesn't shoot his friends with a shotgun or cuss out senior lawmakers on the floor of the senate.

CK4NYSenate2010   January 27th, 2009 10:07 pm ET

Instead of Joe apologizing, Roberts should just audition for the role of Yoda in the next Star Wars movie.

dave   January 27th, 2009 10:07 pm ET

Well he shouldn't have Roberts is one of Bushs picks and him giving the oath and messing up was just the cherry on the top of a bad American nightmare that was Bush.

TrueIndependent   January 27th, 2009 10:06 pm ET

@ John B – 8.59p.m.
Thank you for your post; well thought out and wise.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 10:04 pm ET

Making light of the situation is better than what I would want for this supreme court judge. Roberts should be removed from his duties. History and this is what he gives us to talk about.Thanks judge

TrueIndependent   January 27th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

I have been reading quite a number of reports from Ed Henry that really leave a lot to be desired.

There is a reason Ed Henry was not asked to sit in for Wolf when Wolf took a few days of vacation – Ed Henry is self-absorbed, forgets he is not the reason we watch CNN, and he should not make news. Dana Bash has a great future ahead of her. Ed Henry – Not!

shawn   January 27th, 2009 10:01 pm ET

Well, if Roberts can't take a joke...after all we took him!

Jody Monroe   January 27th, 2009 9:59 pm ET

Sometimes when bad things happen, people joke about them because it lets off steam in a way that makes it less bad. In other words, it's natural to joke about mistakes! Glad he is light-hearted.

Belinda   January 27th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

I agree with the last several posts. Stop apologizing! You didn't do anything wrong...more importantly, it was funny and right on time!

Steve in Las Vegas,NV   January 27th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

There is a time and a place for this kind of thing. This is not it.

The business of government, and especially administering the oath of office is not the comedy club. Please make sure to when to joke and when not to joke. The whole world is watching everything that is done here.

Bill Charlotte, NC   January 27th, 2009 9:56 pm ET

This politically correct crap has gone way to far. Vice Pres Biden, I LOVED your joke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Small Snippet for the Republicans to Feast On   January 27th, 2009 9:55 pm ET

Oh how the mighty have fallen. Now all the mighty neocons have to chew on are little tiny morsels such as these, and see how they seize upon and tear at it.

Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha!

Michael B   January 27th, 2009 9:54 pm ET

who cares, its a joke, you dont need to make excuses for him, it was funny

Joe   January 27th, 2009 9:52 pm ET

the comment about Biden being the fall guy, that is going to be the absolute truth for this admin.

arivera   January 27th, 2009 9:52 pm ET

This is not even a story. The media needs to fill time and looks for anything no matter how meaningless to fill it.

Balando   January 27th, 2009 9:50 pm ET

VP equals Voice Problem.

Tyler Derden   January 27th, 2009 9:49 pm ET

Finally – a repub lick an that can do basic math. Too bad your boy W and his cronies don't have the same skill, genius, or we might not be in the worst economy since the great depression. PS I guess you probably had some help with the math from a Democrat, wonder boy...

Matt January 27th, 2009 9:11 pm ET

The majority of people on this comment list voted for Biden; the joke's on you, and unfortunately, all the rest of us. Boneheads. . . .

Abe London   January 27th, 2009 9:48 pm ET

Grow up Biden? Grow up Biden? Grow up Biden? OBAMA promised "CHANGE". George was famous for his wild west funky way of saying things, Biden is as goofy tongued as they come. So where is the "CHANGE"

Matt   January 27th, 2009 9:48 pm ET

Funny how the media glorifies everything the democrats say if they can. If the liberals say something stupid or insulting, the media seems to ignor it. Everything the republicans say or do is criticized. I guess it makes sense, as the media are the ones who got Obama and Biden elected anyways......

Simmy   January 27th, 2009 9:48 pm ET

I thought it was over. It's great that he apologized, hopefully the no news crew will leave it alone. He's a good man – the right man for President Obama. They compliment each other well. Nothing more to say.

Sherry Birtley   January 27th, 2009 9:48 pm ET

Joe say it isn't so; you have embarrased yourself and us, again. Please think before you speak.

Freed_From_W   January 27th, 2009 9:46 pm ET

That comment was well deserved.

liz poppert   January 27th, 2009 9:45 pm ET

no need to apologize, joe. the republicans having been telling lies and half-truths for the past eight years.

long live the truth!

Pat in IL   January 27th, 2009 9:44 pm ET

Sense of humor, etc. has nothing to do with this. President Obama is very much against divisiveness, and is trying very hard to make sure that all of that, including petty, childish jabs, stops and that these leaders show respect for each other. If you're not respecting someone, then you're not listening. If you're not listening, then you're not learning.

c   January 27th, 2009 9:44 pm ET

Funny thing is it was Obama who spoke out of turn and interrupted Roberts while he was still talking, which then threw Roberts off. That change thing just seems like the same BS politics every day...

mellapela   January 27th, 2009 9:43 pm ET

"Obama did not crack a smile". Uh-oh. I bet that, behind closed doors, someone got a tongue-lashing...............again. lol

Chuck   January 27th, 2009 9:43 pm ET

I lean to the right, but I thought Joe's comment was clever and harmless. We need more light-hearted humor in these seemingly dark days. Yes, Joe has a history of making comments that warrant apologies (e.g. pre-election "clean and articulate" comments made about his new boss), but this time, no apology is necessary. Sounds like he got scolded and told to play nice.

TSRVT   January 27th, 2009 9:42 pm ET

Wow – there are a lot of very stupid people posting here. Biden is a good man, a tireless public servant and a great husband and father. I know this bothers you republicans who prefer broken homes, belittling your kids, and bankrupting the country. Gee, that's too bad.

for texas republic   January 27th, 2009 9:42 pm ET

BIDEN IS THE JOKE

Not a News Story - CNN   January 27th, 2009 9:41 pm ET

Justice Roberts screwed up – anyone can.
His opinion screw ups are far more newsworthy.

Bill   January 27th, 2009 9:41 pm ET

Give me a break. It was a harmless joke. It was not mean spirited. Why can't we enjoy life a little?

Keep it up Joe. We need you.

jean   January 27th, 2009 9:39 pm ET

could you imagine if the the justice had been a democrat and the president a republican ...THE RIGHT Wing REPUBLICANS WOULD CALL FOR THE JUDGES RESIGNATION !!

Leave Biden alone !

Dan   January 27th, 2009 9:38 pm ET

Funny that people are acting as if a punch-on-the-shoulder wisecrack from Biden is an excuse to dub him the anti-christ. Lighten up, people...

shell   January 27th, 2009 9:38 pm ET

So what's the big deal? Just because he is the VP, he can't crack a joke anymore? Leave it to the over zealous "right wingers" to come down on him. And I have news for all of America...Chaney was the worst VP in office...he spent more time in the hospital than he did in the office!!!!!

SHECKY   January 27th, 2009 9:37 pm ET

Joe Biden is an idiot.

the thought police   January 27th, 2009 9:36 pm ET

We almost had that wash woman from Texas on the Court,now she was funny.

Critical Thinker   January 27th, 2009 9:36 pm ET

C'mon? Are you all serious? It was a joke for crying out loud. Perhaps it did not go over well – but to actually write an article about this stuff and for people to question his competence is sady comedy.

Mel   January 27th, 2009 9:34 pm ET

What I thought was funny about the story was that it was only a matter of hours before Biden said something inappropriate – not that he actually said something inappropriate (that's to be expected). Obama did a good job of putting his hand on his arm – a gesture I read to mean "Shut up Joe". I predict this to be the norm.

Wondering   January 27th, 2009 9:33 pm ET

Speaking of Biden, when is that big crisis expected? The one Biden predicted and warned us that this boss's response would be very troubling?

Joe   January 27th, 2009 9:33 pm ET

So, who's the idiot in that case? Justice Roberts for screwing it up? Or, Obama for repeating it? Or, the American electorate for electing a moron?

Vinny, Conroe, TX   January 27th, 2009 9:32 pm ET

Aside from the people who's lives are sitting at a computer typing comments without ever having social interactions, the rest of us can say we made bad jokes before or said something we regret or needed to apologize for. Before comparing him to Bush or Cheney, let's see if he comes up with any gems like "We'll be greeted as liberators" or "I'm the decider" before we chop his head off. And I agree with BB, instead of prolonging this non-story, how about go dig up some real news...even if it is 'difficult' to find.

Houston   January 27th, 2009 9:31 pm ET

What joke? Oh, you mean the joke that is Joe Biden! Very well, apology accepted!

CBH   January 27th, 2009 9:29 pm ET

Amazing no one notices the double standard. VP Biden makes a joke about Chief Justice's apparent poor memory and people/media scold him for saying a joke at the wrong place and time. Rush Limbaugh publicly and proudly expresses his disdain and hate towards the U.S. President to the point where he wishes him and the rest of us to fail and NO ONE CARES. My one only hope is that no one cares because Rush an overrated idiot.

Joan   January 27th, 2009 9:26 pm ET

To most of us, it's simply a profound relief that Obama wants his administration to operate at a higher level of professionalism than we've seen for the past 8 years.

I'm sure that Biden felt he was only making a light-hearted joke...but it was at someone else's expense...and you know, we just don't need that anymore.

Ridley   January 27th, 2009 9:25 pm ET

The joke was very funny. I wonder will Biden laugh when Roberts return the favor on a ruling that affects the people who voted for him. HUMMMMMM! The problem is Biden must understand he is wearing a new pair of shoes. Hopefully he understands that this is a honeymoon. His mouth might dirty up his new shoes by stepping in some sh____ that will have lasting consequences on all people concerned and can't be wiped of with a cloth.

bob   January 27th, 2009 9:23 pm ET

This won't be the last foot in mouth comment from him or his wife or his son or dog or cat, and you know good 'ol CNN will jump on it.

Rorschach   January 27th, 2009 9:22 pm ET

Choose one:

1. Vice-President who sometimes tells weak jokes (Biden)

2. Vice-President who IS a weak joke, or would have been... (Palin)

Wise choice, America.

GooGooCluster   January 27th, 2009 9:22 pm ET

for pete's sake, joe, STOP APOLOGIZING. did cheney ever apologize for any of the godawful things he said about the democrats? of course not. not that joe biden is anything like, cheney, thank goodness, but it sets a bad precident to start things off apologizing for every word said, even in jest. roberts and the rest of the republicans need to grow a thicker hide and learn it goes both ways.

Kim   January 27th, 2009 9:21 pm ET

How insane that he called and said sorry. He has more important things to worry about then poking fun at a man that clearly he cant stand, like 72 MILLION other people in the country

Scott   January 27th, 2009 9:19 pm ET

Get used to it. Biden has a long history of saying moronic statements!

Liora   January 27th, 2009 9:18 pm ET

This is not well worded: "An aide to the vice president said Tuesday the two men spoke privately after that comment." Which two men spoke privately? Biden and Roberts or Biden and Obama?

Tom   January 27th, 2009 9:16 pm ET

Wow, It only took 1 day for Joe to open his mouth and insert foot.

The story is not news worthy but I do find it funning that the democrats are saying we need to lighten up.

What would these people be saying if the former VP made a joke about a democrat mistake?

Sounds like a double standard.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 9:16 pm ET

Everyone is much more understanding when it's not Bush making the flub...interesting

Joes a good guy   January 27th, 2009 9:15 pm ET

I love Joe! Tells it like it is and with humor to boot! Ya buddy!

Don   January 27th, 2009 9:14 pm ET

This is why Biden was the worst choice for VP. Since the election he has made more news making blunders than doing anything productive. President Obama does not need a silly sidekick. Get serious Joe...America does not have time for your gaffes.

Blue balloons   January 27th, 2009 9:12 pm ET

Anonymous January 27th, 2009 6:58 pm ET

Is this guy really our V.P.?

-----–
What's that supposed to mean? huh? I am insulted! Please apologize for your ridiculous comment, now!

Joe Mo   January 27th, 2009 9:11 pm ET

Joe Biden, open mouth, insert foot.

Matt   January 27th, 2009 9:11 pm ET

The majority of people on this comment list voted for Biden; the joke's on you, and unfortunately, all the rest of us. Boneheads. . . .

Obama 2.0   January 27th, 2009 9:08 pm ET

Thank you Vice President.
I have to do it too some times. Sometimes it is just to easy to point the finger and attack. The problem with that is that the finger soon finds the mirror!
It takes a strong man with great character to admit mistakes and make right on them. This is the Joe we love and support :)

KJ   January 27th, 2009 9:07 pm ET

Biden was the perfect choice for Obama. He's the fall guy.

We need to laugh at someone and it can't be Obama or Clinton.

Biden is it.

Mark   January 27th, 2009 9:06 pm ET

Biden did nothing wrong.

In short, Roberts flubbed a historic moment. It would be like showing Washington picking his nose in the historic painting of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the historic painting. Today's digital recordings are the same kind of documentation, so his "special" moment is what he will be known for long after Biden's quip is forgotten.

Roberts created his own "Potatoe" which won't be forgotten, no matter how much the wingnuts try to twist it..

worriedmom   January 27th, 2009 9:05 pm ET

Well at least he can admit he made a mistake. There are bigger fish in the sea to worry about than this

s from ny   January 27th, 2009 9:05 pm ET

So, John from Texas, the vp is a "normal" guy, but the prez is not a normal guy. Are you a "normal" guy?

Gracie   January 27th, 2009 9:05 pm ET

Hey, everyone makes mistakes. After George W. Bush's incompetence, this is minor, call it bad taste in judgement and let's move on. President Obama gave Biden a reminder of what is appropriate and what isn't. That's a good thing, having a President who is hands on.

john   January 27th, 2009 9:04 pm ET

Biden is an A hole. He ALWAYS says the wrong thing because he is selfish and insensitive. He was obviously trying to throw a shot that was not good natured, at Judge Roberts. Biden's clearly a loser.

Michael   January 27th, 2009 9:02 pm ET

Toughen up...Biden has done more for this country then Roberts..he is one of the best foreign policy guys we have....and BTW...Roberts messed up!!!! Can you believe it??? The only idiot is Roberts....he tainted the swearing in....he is the one who should speak up and say he is sorry!! He is the Chief justice!!! His job is to recite and memorize!

Barbara   January 27th, 2009 9:00 pm ET

Joe and Jill Biden have foot-in-mouth disease. Jill Biden struck the only discordant note during the inaugural celebrations when she intimated that Joe was offered the Secretary of State position before Hillary. Even if true, her remark was unnecessary and unkind. With all his gaffes, Joe Biden, an affable, likeable fellow, would be unsuited to the Secretary of State position. Obama chose the right person in Hillary.

IndependentfromTexas.   January 27th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

I applaud how Obama quickly pushed Biden to get serious. Biden is a nice man, but not fit for VP. But, he surely is a team player and hope for the best. But, it is Obama's composure and nature that come out well in this episode.

John B   January 27th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

I think Joe Biden thought this little humorous jab is just business as usual. The beauty is that President Obama, who shared the moment and the minor gaff with Chief Justice Roberts, has sent a signal to his team. Stop the unnecessary @#$%. Who is helped by reminding every one? Does Joe feel better and smarter? Maybe. Does Chief Justice Roberts? Doubtful. This is a lesson for everyone on Obama's "Team of Rivals" and something every American should consider implementing in their own life. Civility and respect should be exhalted.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

REALLY!!! I DON'T SEE THE BIG DEAL ON THIS SUBJECT... IT WAS JUST A JOKE.... CAN PEOPLE NOT NOT JOKE IN THIS WORLD.... LEAVE IT ALONE GUYS..... ALRIGHT, WITH THAT SAID... GO OBAMA.. i AGREE WITH LEZA ON THIS COMMET

LIV   January 27th, 2009 8:57 pm ET

VP Biden is a good man, but this is a new position and he needs to modify his comments accordingly. I'm sure he knows now.

William A. Schaedler from St. Louis   January 27th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

BIDEN needs to shut his mouth. A former plagiarist is a joke! BIDEN isa joke!

Leigh   January 27th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

He CAN'T think before he speaks and that's why he took the VP role. Goodness knows he would get this country in some serious squabbles abroad if he was SOS. Hillary rocks! She'll show him how to think before he speaks!

Scott Tucson   January 27th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

Maybe Joe is practising to be a stand up comic as his next career four years from now.

prosanto   January 27th, 2009 8:51 pm ET

Are people nuts. It was a wise crack. Get over it.

R. Shaw   January 27th, 2009 8:51 pm ET

The world will know what Republicans in Delaware have known all along, the Delaware Dufus will never change. Remember this....If Biden said it you can bet someone else wrote it!

Laura   January 27th, 2009 8:49 pm ET

The gaffe master strike again!

Carl Justus   January 27th, 2009 8:48 pm ET

If anyone gets upset about that then they are way to political correct. It that had been a janitor or some lowly person making that mistake there would have been ten times more jokes about it and no one would have said a work.

If Roberts wants to be the chief justice then he should act like the chief justice and make sure he has the material he needs to be correct, particular when he is swearing in the President of the United States of America.

Roberts should be the one who is apologizing for his stupidity for not having the words written down so he would not make a mistake. He found out he is not as smart as the thinks he is and should finally admit it.

Sharon Jacobs   January 27th, 2009 8:47 pm ET

What Vice President Biden said was not the worse thing he could have said, as my mother use to say, "there is a time and place for all things". The Vice President is a good guy, I'm sure he felt bad (once those words flew out of his mouth) and he want Justice Roberts to know he didn't mean any harm.

AnonE   January 27th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

Goodness, it was a joke. Mr. Biden didn't try to insult him. I'm sure Chief Roberts wasn't as upset as some of you are–after all, the oath was taken properly afterwards. It was humorous, and that was the intention; if anything, it lightened Capitol Hill.

William Wirt   January 27th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

God help us if something happens to Obama - Biden keeps proving himself to be an fool.

TrueIndependent   January 27th, 2009 8:44 pm ET

I have been reading quite a number of reports from Ed Henry that really leave a lot to be desires.

There is a reason Ed Henry was not asked to sit in for Wolf when Wolf took a few days of vacation – Ed Henry is self-absorbed, forgets he is not the reason we watch CNN, and he should not make news. Dana Bash has a great future ahead of her. Ed Henry – Not!

Coultergeist   January 27th, 2009 8:44 pm ET

Sheesh, how sensitive can someone be? Co-workers joke and tease each other at their jobs on a daily basis, It's just innocent fun. It wasn't malicious. Lighten up people!!

Jane   January 27th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

There has to be a way to make this Bush's mistake! Since he appointed Roberts...

Sam Hill   January 27th, 2009 8:42 pm ET

Yep just another mistake.. Kinda like the one where he said McCain should be Pres.. His is just a funny man. One that is a discrace to represent our country..

Christine   January 27th, 2009 8:42 pm ET

Yup, all is fine now that Biben has apologized. You know that's all that is needed now a day: say anything nasty about someone and just say "I'm sorry" and everything is okay dokey. I just love this double standard we live in!

Mish   January 27th, 2009 8:41 pm ET

Awwwwww Joe rocks! It was just a joke, no big deal

becky   January 27th, 2009 8:39 pm ET

I have noticed people writing Joe or Obama. To be respectiful it is President Obama and Vice President Biden

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 27th, 2009 8:38 pm ET

I guess I'm the only conservative Republican who thought the one-liner was funny.

Rod Murrow   January 27th, 2009 8:37 pm ET

Roberts is the one who owes the nation an apology...the wise-crack that VP Biden made was well-deserved!

Chris in New York   January 27th, 2009 8:36 pm ET

"and please please people, don't listen to them about RUSH. we can listent to who ever we want. Rush is the man, and those who try and stop us from listening to him are guilty of censorship including the president. Rush speakers for how we feel america. Get used to it"

Once again, Rush's fans prove themselves to be complete idiots. Or 4th graders; gramatically, that's about where this guy's at.

Oh, and Go Biden. Obama's a little deadpan; Joe needs to liven things up once in a while.

JMH   January 27th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

Linda Welch – Obama chose to use his middle name in the ceremony long before that day. Justice Roberts did not make that decision.

viewer   January 27th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

Roberts himself joked with Obama right before he delivered the oath on inauguration day – if memory serves, he said "Ready to take notes, Senator?" Pretty cocky for someone about to flub his lines, not to mention that Obama was 'president elect,' not Senator, on that day. But I took it as an inside joke from one constitutional scholar to another. I'd be surprised if he took offense at this, and if he did, I'd say it's a double standard not to hold others' jests to the same standard as ones own.

Peter   January 27th, 2009 8:33 pm ET

I am still wondering why Bush,Roberts and co. politicise our judicial branch, someone explain!

Me   January 27th, 2009 8:33 pm ET

President Obama should ask the Preacher who said the last Prayer on Inuaguration Day to say, I'm sorry for his comments."
Yellow will be Mellow and so on...........geeze what a guy

Charlie in Maine   January 27th, 2009 8:32 pm ET

I much perfer Biden's humor to Cheney's use of the F-word against Patrick Leahy. Does anyone remember that?

Joe Biden is great but there is a reason that he is Vice President and not press secretary.

Otto   January 27th, 2009 8:32 pm ET

A Chief Justice messing up the Oat of office? That joke was very small to what should have been said.

The VP has a sense of humor "at least" not like Senor Cheney who has an iron heart. Look at the lite side once in a while people.

President Obama is just an upright gentleman and wanted to keep it serious.

Larry   January 27th, 2009 8:31 pm ET

CNN –CNN's Ed Henry contributed to this report,THANKYOU, this was not the same ol,same ol,biased report that, where as these guys are always "protected" by the media.Had the previous vice president done and said the same things--we would have read this same story.

How come you're doing such a good job ?????

Billy   January 27th, 2009 8:31 pm ET

Oh, Joe, It is ok?? Let's hold hands, drink koolaide and dance. All will be ok. Heck if Bush had said that you would of all had a freaking cow. Agreed not bad at all, but I love the double standards. 4 more years...

Anajia   January 27th, 2009 8:30 pm ET

@Kevin: If you are going to make a comment, especially supporting Rush Limbaugh, you need to learn how to spell and anyway this discussion is not about Limbaugh. Stay on subject

will   January 27th, 2009 8:30 pm ET

I would like to say to Joe, as I tell my children, keep you mouth close!

fearful for my country   January 27th, 2009 8:29 pm ET

Does it really surprise anyone that Biden is constantly putting his foot in his mouth? There's a reason this guy didn't even get a small fraction of the votes in the primary and Obama chooses him for VP. Kinda makes one wonder....

Republicans Are a Joke   January 27th, 2009 8:29 pm ET

Biden needs to apologize for nothing.

Roberts screwed up the oath, probably on purpose, as a rabid Conservative. He has no business being on the Court as it is. He is an arrogant jerk who has stated his whole purpose in life is to overturn Roe V Wade.

It is the Republicans I want to hear apologizing for 8 years of hell and for wasting $10B a month in a senseless war.

They need to shut up and vote for the economic stimulus plan NOW. No more games and playing with our lives. We need help now and I am sick of petty Republican politics. McCain was sickening enough with his disgusting dishonorable campaign of hatred and lies.

Republicans are supposed to be "Country First"??? What a joke.
Prove it and actually do something for Americans instead of enriching yourself and your rich buddies.

Vote for the package or pack up your office and go home now for you will surely be voted out of office come midterm elections.

Boehner is the biggest fool of all. His state is hurting the most and he is up in Washington playing to the news media and blocking everything Obama plans to do just for the sheer sake of blocking. He is a traitor to America in its time of desperate need. I think he has let his brain fry too long in his tanning bed.

Francisco   January 27th, 2009 8:29 pm ET

Good scolding; he deserves it for his quick tongue.

Ben Dallas   January 27th, 2009 8:27 pm ET

Kevin,

You must have missed the last eight no 20 years of republican mean spirited and ugly behavior. Try the last stupid comment from Rush Limp bow.

Lilarose in Bandon, Oregon   January 27th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Geez!

We NEED some light-heartedness in this miserable country!

Don't these people have alot more important stuff to worry about than a joke?

Biden, don't spend one second on this kind of stuff.

Bob   January 27th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Man
Y'all need to get a real job!
Don't change Joe!

GWB   January 27th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

I'm a Republican and Joe Biden is not a problem – neither is Obama. Now get rid of Hollywood libs, Harry Reid and Pelosi and we can all get along, I believe.

Texas Teacher   January 27th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Sometimes you can say something with a little humor that otherwise can't be spoken of without offense given. All I can say is that if the shoe fits... wear it. It was one of those convenient jabs... I think Biden was in his rights to make the point with a grin. :)

I think I am really getting tired of every Tom, Dick, and Republican feeling like the Obama administration is not being fair to them... hell no one ever even questioned Bush and company on anything! Seriously... give me a break! The republicans thumbed their noses at the democrats at every opportunity! Pffft....

LMG   January 27th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Biden's a boob! I can just imagine Obama rolling his eyes and thinking to himself, "And I'm going to be stuck with this jerk, making these stupid gaffs for another four years! Man, what have I gotten myself in to?"

me again   January 27th, 2009 8:25 pm ET

Who wasn't smacking themselves in the forehead when the Presidential oath got flubbed? I think that as a nation, everyone groaned (on the inside at least) ...lol, it's no biggie to joke about it, perhaps Obama is just a little jealous because Biden's oath went off without a hitch-he totally nailed it.

I mean, if I had to rate oath performance....well, if I were Obama I would play my Presdiential card, and giving Biden a-talking-to about a silly joke would be my revenge! bahahahaha!

wow   January 27th, 2009 8:24 pm ET

This is whats wrong with the US people worrying about hurting other people's feelings, everyone needs to stop being so sensitive

Cammi317   January 27th, 2009 8:24 pm ET

Whatever, it was in good fun and not intended to be mean. I don't see why he needed to apologize, except for the fact that they will need him to vote their way during the administration. Otherwise an apology for such a small thing is dumb.

Aud   January 27th, 2009 8:23 pm ET

Good Old Joe! You gotta love him. He 's very funny and he knows his stuff. He has been on Capitol Hill for 36 years. Everyone knows Biden and they know how he is. I don't think the Chief Justice was insulted at all. Come on America, can we lighten up a little. We need a good laugh every now and then.

Dixie   January 27th, 2009 8:23 pm ET

To kris in Al : The true train wreck is the entire Palin clan. Their constant drama and antics are quite simply very hard to ignore. What Joe said pales considerably when you consider all the questionable things Palin spewed.

Dan   January 27th, 2009 8:23 pm ET

The Democrat’s motto: “Admit nothing, deny everything and make counter accusations!”

Monica Marquez   January 27th, 2009 8:22 pm ET

My Gawd, what is wrong with a sense of humor, I think VP Biden is funny, I love him and his sense of humor. Geez, leave him alone

Mary Ellen   January 27th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

oh lighten up – it was a joke – we all need to laugh at least once a day -

GOP   January 27th, 2009 8:20 pm ET

Most have been there;done that as it were.

The important thing is he has a sense of humor which is an attribute
he will need when he becomes President later this year.

Incidently,has anyone yet to see a certified copy of Obam's birth
certificate?We know now why he is such an insecent smoker continually checking his Blackberry.He knows soon
he will read that the certificate will be uncovered revealing him
to be not eligible for the offfices held.Like OJ his conduct gives him
away.He knows his day are numbered.!!!

To hasten that day,a campaign should be strated to send him a carton of Camels-each day.

Wolday   January 27th, 2009 8:20 pm ET

Yep that is it. If it is said by me or you...may not be a news. But when it comes from such figures – yes it is a breaking news !!

Stephen   January 27th, 2009 8:18 pm ET

In case anybody actually saw the Inauguration, Obama CHOKED on Chief Justice Roberts. OBAMA jumped the gun.. I dunno WTH they think, but the judge didn't screw up, Our new Comrade in Chief did.

Tyler Derden   January 27th, 2009 8:18 pm ET

Roberts is a hack. He has now proved it on national television. His only quality is that he is a better jurist than Harriet Miers, another Bush crony appointed (but not confirmed) to politicize the judiciary.

Mertis from Georgetown,S.C   January 27th, 2009 8:18 pm ET

Please do us proud and think before speaking.

Snake eyes   January 27th, 2009 8:18 pm ET

FOR THOSE OF YOU PICKING ON BIDEN LETS NOT FORGET THE WONDERFUL MOMENTS BROUGHT TO US BY "THE DECIDER" NOW MATTER HOW BAD BIDEN FLUBS, THEY CANT HOLD A CANDLE TO THE BEAUTIES W GAVE US!!!

Proud American   January 27th, 2009 8:17 pm ET

CAN'T THE GUY TAKE A JOKE?

phillygal   January 27th, 2009 8:15 pm ET

this is SUB G-Rated material! I am actually disappointed that he didn't say anything remotely juicy or scandalous. It was funny, in a grandpa sort-of-way. If you can't laugh it off, then you need to go to the store and buy yourself a sense of humor.

Chipster   January 27th, 2009 8:14 pm ET

Justice Roberts seems to have a very good sense of humor. He and VP Biden probably had a good laugh at the media for its lack of one.

Joshua Tree   January 27th, 2009 8:14 pm ET

Did he ever apologize for making fun of the guy in the wheelchair?

Boy, is that ever the pot calling the kettle black.

Susan   January 27th, 2009 8:14 pm ET

I love Biden. He made a joke and it was funny. Robert's is the one who made the blunder.

Russ   January 27th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

I think Biden's joke was mildly-funny. It certainly wasn't offensive. It's hardly as if the Chief Justice's flub wasn't known to a good portion of the planet's human population already.

Lucy williams   January 27th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

Give the guy a break. We need all the humor we can get in these trying times. I am not a fan of Joe Biden but he did nothing wrong and has nothing to apologize for.

Kellybelle   January 27th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

Wasn't malicious perhaps, but it was humor at the chief justice's expense. Not a big deal, but not good form, either.

Mary   January 27th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

Biden is an idiot – what do you expect!! Heaven help us if he ever has to step in and be president!!!!

Karen in Florida   January 27th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

I'm a Republican, who voted McCain. Joe B. was having some light-hearted fun, and I am sure he and Justice Roberts shared a laugh over the whole thing. I may not see things as you do much of the time Joe, but don't ever lose your sense of humor :) .

Anne   January 27th, 2009 8:12 pm ET

Joe....... should know when to ''shut up" The President didnt think it was humorous !!!

Naseem Mian   January 27th, 2009 8:11 pm ET

Joe is very nice and intelligent Vice President. I am sure he had great respect for Chief Justice John Roberts.

mike   January 27th, 2009 8:11 pm ET

Biden needs to watch his loose lips...he really steps in it when he talks....I expect his mouth will get him the boot from the messiah someday Joey think before you talk This is not the first time your mouth gets you in trouble

Suzy   January 27th, 2009 8:10 pm ET

Obama needs to lighten up.. Biden was just gettin down with his bad self...

R Wolf   January 27th, 2009 8:09 pm ET

Is this really even worth reporting? It was a joke – an innocent, sweet one, so stop reporting every word that comes out of people's mouths. The press is should all go on vacation and leave the rest of us alone for awhile!!!!!!!!

TB   January 27th, 2009 8:09 pm ET

Anything to cause a stir.People really amaze me.

reggie   January 27th, 2009 8:09 pm ET

The new Vice President will be spending much of the next four years apologizing for things he says. Hard to believe this guy was elected senator for so many years. He puts his foot in his mouth time and time again.

Susan   January 27th, 2009 8:09 pm ET

C'mon- it was funny! Roberts did screw up– he's the CHIEF JUSTICE! Memorize it, or use a cheat sheet, or suffer the consequences! :)

Bren   January 27th, 2009 8:08 pm ET

Noticed Joe read off a card when he swore in Timothy Geithner!

WIll 18E   January 27th, 2009 8:08 pm ET

Joe made a "light hearted joke" and if Roberts is too sensitive maybe he should resign from the Supreme Court.
It was Roberts who freely choose not to read the oath of office from a printed source. Roberts was the first Chief Justice in the history of the U.S. to do so. And it was Roberts who screwed up. It is Roberts who owes an apology. So Roberts makes an error for the first time in U.S history and Biden or anybody else can't joke about it. Typical hypocrisy from a Bush appointee. "your doing a heck of a job Browning."

Truth   January 27th, 2009 8:06 pm ET

Here is some Hope for you. I Hope nothing ever happens to Obama, cause Biden makes Cheney look like a genius.

SJW   January 27th, 2009 8:06 pm ET

Don't beat a dead horse, let it go. I thought it was funny. maybe the wrong time , wrong place.

kathy   January 27th, 2009 8:06 pm ET

Too bad, this is just Joe. Let's hope on the trip abroad he does not slip and insult someone or some nation. He has always been one to say too much without thinking. I guess that is why he could not get 2% of the primary votes in the first few states and then had to drop out (of more than one Presidential Primary).

Z-Man   January 27th, 2009 8:05 pm ET

OK – we can let a tax dodger take over as Treasury Secretary, but the VP has to apoligze for light hearted joke? Where's President Obama's apology to all taxpayers???

James   January 27th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

Old loose lip Biden. This is nothing new for him. Obama and he will soon have their first lovers discussion. Biden will be his regret in a few months.

German,Irish American   January 27th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

Nothing newsworthy here, just another joke, like Biden himself.

John in Texas   January 27th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

I agree. It's not a big deal. Lighten up everyone. I'm a Republican from Texas but I will stand behind the VP because he seems like a normal guy and I will stand behind the POTUS because he was elected by a majority of the American voting public. Now, let's get to work folks.

Jane   January 27th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

He always says the wrong thing. He is not very intelligent and it shows, what else can you say? He is not funny, he is obnoxious.

C. Maddox   January 27th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

I think Joe Biden is like all of us. Every now and then we say something we shouldn't. I actually thought it was quite funny and I don't think he meant to disrespect Chief Justice Roberts. I can also see why President Obama did not find it funny because he wants his administration to show respect to the people and the office they hold. It's okay to do that too. At any rate, the presidency is a serious thing and should not be taken lightly. I think this is the tone President Obama is trying to convey. However, when you get VP Biden, you get all that comes with him so the Obama administration is just going to have to get over it eventually and accept him as he is. If not, he will be forever apologizing!!!

joe kofi   January 27th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

Come on that was just a joke. I believe Mr. Biden's comments shouldn't bring any further discussions.

Warvette   January 27th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

It's not like he made fun of the guy's lineage or anything.

Greg Hodges   January 27th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

Does anybody have a sense of humour anymore? Barack Obama already told Judge Roberts "No Problem!"

AngieS   January 27th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

Joe Biden has a heart of gold and I think everyone knows it. Some may call his jokes "flubs" or "blunders" but I call them lighthearted humour. I think he just wants to see people smile and laugh and that is one of the many qualities that make him a truly good man.

Butch Dillon   January 27th, 2009 8:01 pm ET

Roberts must have needed an apology and, obligingly, Joe offered it. One man has a sense of humor, the other is a conservative republican. What can you do??? Some things are just too important!

julisatc   January 27th, 2009 8:01 pm ET

Obama has already started to tug on Biden's reigns... I was hoping that Joe could steal some of Obama's thunder throughout their term.

Sarah   January 27th, 2009 8:01 pm ET

When did we all get so SENSITIVE?!?!?!

over it   January 27th, 2009 8:00 pm ET

we seem to be so concerned with a "culture of nice-ness"...it was a joke, get over it!

Debbie   January 27th, 2009 8:00 pm ET

I don't know why he felt he had to apologize. Before it came out that Roberts was responsible for the flub, the wingnuts were ALL OVER this, blaming Obama for the mistake. Roberts didn't apologize to Obama for screwing up this historic moment, did he?

Lisa B   January 27th, 2009 8:00 pm ET

I'm pretty sure Justice Roberts has a better sense of humor than the person who thought Biden should apologize. The last thing I want to see is Obama-Biden start tip toeing around people. There is no need to apologize for telling it like it is or telling a joke if it is not insensitive to others. I'm pretty sure Justice Roberts can take the heat of his flub without crying.

Cath in VA   January 27th, 2009 8:00 pm ET

Look, Roberts apologized for screwing up the oath the first time, and he did a do-over. Biden apologized for his crack. Okay, it's over. Can we move on and FIX THIS MESS that the country is in?

cindi   January 27th, 2009 7:59 pm ET

The man is the Chief Justice of the United States, this is his big moment, and he could not remember the presidential oath of office? I'd say the VP let him off easy

Rob   January 27th, 2009 7:59 pm ET

TIME FOR AMERICA TO GET A GRIP AND LAUGH A LITTLE. TELL THE MINORITY COMPLAINS TO GO POUND SAND.....

George B.   January 27th, 2009 7:58 pm ET

I thought this would be something really terrible, this is nothing. It was not mean-spirited, come on folks, get a life.

No Incumbents 2010   January 27th, 2009 7:58 pm ET

I do not like Joe Biden, but people need to lighten up. Everything does not have to be "Politically Correct". Folks need to quit whining and grow up. Someone might hurt your feelings- get over it!

Linda   January 27th, 2009 7:57 pm ET

Just don't get it. It really wasn't all that funny, BUT it was not insulting. The news has been more insulting than Joe. Go figure.

janet, ohio   January 27th, 2009 7:56 pm ET

Excuse me, "tony", but exactly who whined about it? Nobody but the Obama administration. Chief Justice Roberts has way more important things to worry about than little joe biden.

Will   January 27th, 2009 7:56 pm ET

I think it is Chief Justice Roberts who needs to apologize to the nation for flubbing the oath of office during President Obama's inauguration ceremony; I know that he has already apologized to the President, but he owes everyone else an apology as well as it was certainly disappointing that he decided to mangle such an important and historic moment.

Zach   January 27th, 2009 7:56 pm ET

It didn't feel it was insulting whatsoever, but I see some have to be politically correct to the nth degree.

robyn w/an awesome Y   January 27th, 2009 7:55 pm ET

Ah Ray; you, me and Biden have the same sense of humor . Too bad everyone else can't lighten up. I thought it was hilarious but when I am not at my paying job I relish in being immature.

Benton Indianapolis, In   January 27th, 2009 7:55 pm ET

At least this vice president knows how to admit when he makes a mistake.

Erinn   January 27th, 2009 7:55 pm ET

I didn't vote for you Joe, but I'm beginning to like you...great sense of humor!

Judy   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

Boy! this country is getting to where you afraid todo or say anything Oh I should say except something so dirty that seweage systems wo
uld be shocked!! Freedom of speech !!ONLY IF IT IS FIFTLY?? Mr.Biden brush the media off and be yourself!!
When we ALL TURN BACK TO A GODLY COUNTRY THINGS WILL GET BETTER!! BUT WOE UNTO US ALL UNTIL OUR GOVERMENT AND CITIZENS WAKE UP!!

judy

Debby   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

This is only the begining of blunders that Biden will say being VP. He might as well keep that foot in his mouth for 4 years. hahaha

Mike   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

Thanks Ray, we were all concerned about which politicians comedic stylings your humor most closely resembles. Glad we were able to put this pressing issue to rest.

SO   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

VP Biden seems to always want to be the center of attention. Why doesn't he shut up and try not to be the center of attention? I voted for the President but was not happy with his choice as a running mate.

Mike L   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

I don't get it... who did that joke offend? Roberts, who did indeed get the oath wrong? Is Biden not allowed to make light of that?

Marty   January 27th, 2009 7:54 pm ET

Did you see Barack Obama's face when Biden let it slip out? He was stone-faced with no expression. I'm pro Obama/Biden, and voted for them. However, I think there is a time and a place for everything. That was NOT the time nor place.

Erinn   January 27th, 2009 7:53 pm ET

I didn't vote for you Joe, but I'm beginning to like you more and more...great sense of humor!

Tom   January 27th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

I am offended that Biden had to apologize for trying to make people smile. It wasn't offensive. Maybe Justice Roberts should have his pay docked for messing up the easiest part of his job if a joke couldn't be had. Biden, I'll be waiting for your phone call so we can have a "good conversation".

eddie   January 27th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

Please Biden, stop apologizing.....Cheney used the F-word and said he felt good about it. His remark was funny in the circumstance and needs no apology.

bj   January 27th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

Let's face it, Biden is and moron. For you dumbocrats, that's just a notch below an idiot.

Maggie SC   January 27th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

Is VP Biden deliberately putting Pre Obama in a bad light?

John   January 27th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

There's nothing to apologize about here.

Humored In Texas   January 27th, 2009 7:51 pm ET

Bush should apologize for appointing Roberts!

Marcia, Marcia, Marcia   January 27th, 2009 7:51 pm ET

I thought it was funny.

Of all the serious things going on with this country, a little humor is okay!

Dan   January 27th, 2009 7:51 pm ET

Both Barack and Biden are jokers. Get a life.

Adam   January 27th, 2009 7:51 pm ET

It was funny. Grow some thick skin. Jeez

Romney2012   January 27th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

Biden should apologize for HIMSELF; for he's a huge joke

Joyce in Florida   January 27th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

Yes, it is time to lighten up. Especially after the joke of the last 8 years; with all due respect.

Christian   January 27th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

I think Obama set the right tone by not laughing along, but rather with a stern serious stance Obama insisted to his vp that this isn't going to be "that type" of administration. We've got too much work to do, to make this seem like one big party! Now let's get to work!

Jenn   January 27th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

I guess one has to have no sense of humor once they reach the upper levels of government. No wonder these politicians end up being woefully out of touch! Shame on everyone who made this a bigger deal then it warrented.

Mike Dallas   January 27th, 2009 7:49 pm ET

Roberts did screw it up and Biden is older so he can joke about problems with memory!

Besides, it was funny!

Travis   January 27th, 2009 7:49 pm ET

Anyone who would find this insulting has skin thinner than thin.

SC resident   January 27th, 2009 7:48 pm ET

That comment was in poor taste.... He should know better than to make it.

lori   January 27th, 2009 7:48 pm ET

Oh I love Joe. He had no malice intent. Was just a lil humorous quip. I was hoping we, as a country, would be able to lighten up a little bit after 8 years of h* **. Especially since the inaugural benediction was so light hearted and humorous I really hoped we were on a new course.

Dan   January 27th, 2009 7:47 pm ET

Bah It's no big deal – I'm sure by the time Joe called Justice Roberts had already forgotten all about it!

Super   January 27th, 2009 7:47 pm ET

No big deal, but it is worth pointing out how the kid gloves are used for Obama/Biden but had it been Bush or Cheney there would have been a hailstorm of criticism and calls for impeachment.

dickasonjr   January 27th, 2009 7:47 pm ET

Joe Biden is a caricature of a vaudeville hack. I'm waiting for him to pull out the seltzer water bottle and give the up-tight Pres a schpritz down his pants. What a gag! Yep, we all just need to lighten up.

Angelina   January 27th, 2009 7:47 pm ET

Lighten up! VP Joe Biden must be close to perfect if we have noting else to be critical of. Joe and his wife Jill are a breath of fresh air, both with a good sense of humour. Bless them both! Can't believe we have a news headline about such a comment – are we a little too dull, or just plain boring?

Jesus Praising, Freedom Loving American Patriot   January 27th, 2009 7:46 pm ET

At least he has to guts to apologize for his mistakes...unlike other Veeps.

west coast   January 27th, 2009 7:46 pm ET

Oops, I mis-spoke. Public opinion, a least in here, thinks that it was only a joke, nothing to fuss about. Ray Fisher said it well, he had the same humor, "we simply never have matured…" (satirically speaking for Ray?)
Readers' opinion: If it is alright for me to crack jokes, it is alright for the VP, at any occasion.

Lois   January 27th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

Obama is sending Biden out of the country as his punishment. You could tell from the look on O's face that he was not a happy camper with Joe-Joe.

He didn't take the Secy of State job because there was too much travel but since he screwed up, he is being made to travel as his punishment.

Bob   January 27th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

I'm a Republican but I'm now supportive of Obama and Biden (to a degree anyway) and I certainly do NOT hope they fail. I agree this wasn't a big deal (the joke) and it's not really newsworthy, but I'd ask those of you who also say it isn't a big deal the following question: If it were Cheney instead of Biden that said it, would you still be so magnanimous, or would you be flinging mean-spirited comments his way? And don't say "well, he would deserve it". It's time to put the rancor aside...for all of us.

Joe Biden   January 27th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

You should have seen Barack's face when I made that comment!

EVOLVE   January 27th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

THAT IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU PUT A BUSH APPOINTED PERSON IN AN IMPORTATNT POSITION SUCH AS US CHIEF JUSTICE. ROBERTS CAN'T EVEN PRESENT THE PRESIDENTAL OATH IN THE CORRECT MANNER.

GREAT! BUSH STILL HAUNTS US.

Amy   January 27th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

I can't believe anyone would seriously take offense at what so clearly was a lighthearted jab. The inaugural flub was covered so exhaustively by the media and Biden's remark was a reminder that there is room for levity even at the most solemn moments. The ability to goodnaturedly tease and joke helps to ease so many social occasions and it's obvious that Joe Biden is comfortable with his peers. I find his natural and easy going jokes a sign of confidence and am glad every word out of his mouth is not studied and rehearsed. Lighten up people!

Mark   January 27th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

Had he been the center of microscopic attention that Pail had during the campaign, we surely would have had lots of question marks on this guy. Scary!

Mary Kay   January 27th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

Joe – can I call you Joe?
You are down to earth and real. While Pres Obama might not have been thrilled with what you said – Roberts should have known the oath by heart. If he was nervous, well, he should have used cue cards.

Still luv ya.

kevin   January 27th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

this man must resign his office.

Mark Lane   January 27th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

Biden is a smart aleck–the opposite of a diplomat. The recently revealed news that Obama had offered Biden his choice of Secretary of State or VP makes me question Obama's good judgement. Biden's choice of the VP job makes me question Biden's good judgement. Being "a good man" is no excuse for being a fool.

Jared   January 27th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

Tony...I totally agree, but the only difference is that nobody whined about this. It would be one thing if Chief Justice Roberts was insulted (thankfully he has a sense of humor and wasn't) but now we are to the point that you have to apologize for everything regardless of whether or not someone without a sense of humor took offense to it. Everyone needs to just relax a bit, things are bad enough without having to apologize for every little light hearted joke.

Nonsense   January 27th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

This is absolute nonsense! It was a simple joke. It wasn't even malicious or anything, it was simply poking fun at an incident everyone is talking about.

Now he has to apologize for it? That shows how pathetic some people will go to make it an issue and force him to apologize about something as stupid as this.

Argh!

Solamor   January 27th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

Why is everyone ignoring the part where President Obama blurted out his response before Mr. Roberts was finished stating the entire phrase? I've only seen one news article; no late-night comedians, mention that perhaps Mr. Obama's premature recitation is what threw off Mr. Roberts. No chuckling over this President's mistakes.

dave   January 27th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

Seriously? This was a story? Are we all really that up tight?

John   January 27th, 2009 7:42 pm ET

Yeah it was a joke and nothing was intended but let's face it if Bush or Cheney had made the same joke people would be calling for their blood.

Larry Houston TX   January 27th, 2009 7:41 pm ET

THANK YOU......@Obama : – )

Brian   January 27th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

I can't wait for Biden to start the Blagojevich jokes!
:D

Currahee   January 27th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

During the debates, I noticed that Joe Biden simply talks way too much. End of story.

Dennis   January 27th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

The 6month disaster comment during campaign was horrible.
I feel Joe is one of the weakest links in Obama's chain. Also including Sec of Labor, an especially bad pick!

cdmertz   January 27th, 2009 7:39 pm ET

Could you please tell Joe to turn off the clown act,he only seem's to be able to go from clown to fool then back again.!

Daniel, Atlanta, GA   January 27th, 2009 7:39 pm ET

Although I would argue that Joe does seem more like Bush, and we may have 8 years of "Bindenisms," I do think everyone needs to lighten up a bit.

Linda Welch   January 27th, 2009 7:39 pm ET

Does anyone reading this story agree with me that Roberts was a jerk and deserved to be chided by Biden? I don't think Joe Biden should apologize. He made a true statement about the way he saw the situation. Why are we so afraid of truth? I am sorry, but I am tired of all the "Mr. Nice Guy"" comments here after 8 years of Hell with Bush and Cheney... I do not believe we should hide our anger about those eight years. Roberts (on the Supreme Court) is one of the heart breaking prices we have paid for those years. He is a right wing ideologue —pure and simple.

Janet - Missouri   January 27th, 2009 7:38 pm ET

President Obama was sensitive enough to Biden's "joke" that he tapped Biden lightly on the back and was negatively shaking his head. Of course, Biden didn't pick up on the subtle hint and kept talking. A few hours later Obama was sworn in again; this time with the exact phrasing. I can guarantee you that had he not taken the oath again, some people in this country would have said he wasn't "really" the president because of the screw-up. Obama is deadly serious about this country and its myriad problems. Biden needs to emulate the President's demeanor a little more. The "boys" can goof around when the day is over and the cameas are not rolling.

Stu-Florida   January 27th, 2009 7:38 pm ET

If you take life too seroiusly and not make light of certain insignificant things... you wind up in ... Alaska, as part of the Palin PAC.

Come on... He's a kidder. Always will be. He does, however, get serious when he needs to be. That's what I like about him... one of the many things I like about him. When he says he's sorry he means it!

Tom in Delaware   January 27th, 2009 7:38 pm ET

Barely a speed bump compared to the whoopers of the past 36 years that we here in the First State have had to contend with....Biden's the kind og guy that if you just give him enough rope, he'll hang himself .

Should be a gaffe-filled 4 years.

Cindy   January 27th, 2009 7:38 pm ET

I noticed who really didn't think it was funny, his boss, Obama. Funny however, Obama didn't have a problem when he messed up taking the oath of office. And don't tell me it was the fault of Justice Roberts. If I knew I was being watched by millions of people you bet I'd study that oath until the cows came home.

Yep, seems to me if Obama messes up, it's ok, but don't anyone else do it. Guess it's just ego getting in the way on the behalf of Obama!

Shawn   January 27th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

The world needs to lighten up. It was funny. If it was up to the politically correct dictators, the entire world world would be stripped of humor because something might offend someone.

john   January 27th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

Joe needs to lay off the sauce.

Lyn   January 27th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

Don't worry Joe, I'd have said the same thing! I get in trouble all the time for the stuff that flows out of my mouth too!

Linda B., Ga.   January 27th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

Joe, you did nothing wrong. i don't see why you felt you had to apologize, IF anything, Chief Justice Roberts should've given a public apology to the new President and the American People....

God Bless America :-)

Rick from Chicago   January 27th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

jumbo,

You mean as opposed to the countless apologies from Cheney that never happened?

Michael G -Ventura ca   January 27th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

It was funny Joe- no need to apologize- I HOPE THAT'S WHAT THE CHIEF JUSTICE SAID-OTHERWISE......

tws1906   January 27th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

Roberts is the one who needs to apologize.

Solamor   January 27th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

My goodness we're going very easy on Mr. Biden's goofy joke; not so easy on Mr. Bush's misspeaks, or Dan Quayle's a few years ago. They were treated like idiots. You may say it isn't important; lighten up, but it is certainly not the tone Mr. Obama wishes to set during his first few days in office – poking fun at people for simple mistakes.

Replublican rooting for Obama's success   January 27th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

I don't like the gotcha culture. We all make mistakes. I think we all have foot in mouth disease more than we would care to acknowledge. Can you imagine being under this kind of media microscope? Let's not discourage good people from entering into the service of politics by overanalyzing every facial twitch and small misstep. Believe it or not, not all blunders by political leaders need to even be reported at all. Let us discard Jerry Springerism, and start a new culture where we sincerely want each other to succeed.

Mike in AZ   January 27th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

Yeah, it's horrible that Biden has a sense of humor. The PC police never rest.

Joyce Becker   January 27th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

Joe is a very good man, however as Vice President he has to make some sort of effort to keep his tongue under control, as hard as that might be. What he said of course was nothing serious, but it could have hurt the Chief Justice's feelings unless he also has a good sense of humor. I am glad that President Obama didn't crack a smile when the remark was said, wonder what he said to poor Joe.

RaeofSun   January 27th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

Haha, I would have bet money on this announcement when I read his original quote. Does an apology really mean anything? Besides my boss is already struggling hard to present an aura of bipartisanship and my foot doesn't taste so good in my mouth?

Ric   January 27th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

I see Obama as a sensitive person acutely aware of the occasion and its significance to what he believes are core values that public servants must embody. By doing what he did, "rebuking" Biden, he showed great respect for his office, for the people he works with, and Justice Roberts.

It was not a time for jests.

Americans should be proud they have a respectful president.

Ron, Oklahoma City OK   January 27th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

...and everyone thought the Bushisms were good. At least he isnt asking the wheelchair-bound to stand up or the blind to look at a piece of art! Good on ya, Joe...

Moe Mullet   January 27th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

Get used to the "Gaffe Master" Biden, smartest duffus on the planet, making all kinds of stupid, holier than thou comments. He's such and ignorant, dim-witted, pompous jerk. His new "Klingon" look should go over well with rest of the Botox Crowd.

educated Ron   January 27th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

Lighten up already. The appeal of Biden is his ability to speak what's truly on his mind. That is very rare in a politician. Obama is extremely deliberate and purposely slow. He realizes he can't say or tries to avoid saying the wrong thing. Its undertandable for Obams the right wing is looking for anything to attack. Biden is old school can say what he wants. He's similar to charles barkley. He can say basically whatever he wants as long as he's honest about it.

Philip-Las Vegas   January 27th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

We have other things much more important to worry about than someone criticizing a little good humor.

John   January 27th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

Why are people so thin skinned?

joseph   January 27th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

Sometimes when everybody seems uptight and kind of tense it sometimes helps to make light of any given situation and i think that was the intent of the VP at that moment.

Jacque Bauer   January 27th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

A lot of sappy apologists here. Wake up – it's not like this was the first time or one thousandth. I just hope he doesn't say something to Ahmadinejad when he and O'man are kissing up to him that causes the little psycho to lauch.

Duh   January 27th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

Same o'l diarrhea of the mouth for funny man Biden.

Rorschach   January 27th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

Waiting for some PC Republican to express his outrage in 3...2...1...

Sally Dickason   January 27th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

Why does everyone ignore the part where President Obama flubbed up with a premature recitation. I think that's what threw off the Chief Justice, when Pres Obama blurted out the first part before Mr. Roberts had finished the first phrase. I haven't heard a single late-night comedian mention President Obama's premature recitation.

Maggie in MA   January 27th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

I am all for humor but not at someone else's expense. I'm glad he apologized.

Albo58   January 27th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

Perhaps Biden's staff should go ahead and produce a few hundred, generic letters of apology for VP Biden to sign on his way to/from his home on the train?#! It's going to be a long 4 years...

Agalag   January 27th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

Biden is a moron who is constantly putting his foot in his mouth. He was reigned in during the election–Obama told him to keep his mouth shut, and he did. Looks like Barry's gonna have to give him another good talking to. No wonder Obama didn't laugh; he was so worried about it that he had to have Roberts come over for a quick visit–"and while you're here, do you think you could swear me in again?".

Joe Biden was a poor choice on so many levels–but we shall seeee...

TjayeInLA   January 27th, 2009 7:31 pm ET

Okay....Pres. Obama is just going to have to face and accept that Joe Biden is good for a silly laugh. Chillax Prez...we took Bush for 8 years...we can clearly take a joke. lol

Larry   January 27th, 2009 7:31 pm ET

The VP made light of something that was after all, pretty amusing. Big deal. Would you rather deal with VP Biden or Cheney? Now there's a name that I'd rather forget. I'm looking forward to a straight shooting guy (even if he misses sometimes) as opposed to someone who kept the windows in his office painted black and lit only by candles–Transylvania like.
Lighten up everybody!

Matt Z   January 27th, 2009 7:31 pm ET

Thank the lord this is the biggest crisis the US is currently embroiled in, or this issue would seem small potatoes.
MZ

seth, minnesota   January 27th, 2009 7:30 pm ET

haha funny

west coast   January 27th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

I saw Joe Biden's video as it happened. What he did was unbecoming of a man in his office and for the solemn occasion, even though the Robert's flub was very regrettable. I saw the stone face of Obama and how he even reached and touched his elbow as if to say " enough of this and move on to do your solumn duty". I respect Obama for that.
I also worry about the antics Joe Biden will continue to play that will strain the working relationship of the two.
Obama will not put up with his non-sense. Will Biden submit?
The lighter side is that the burden to rein Biden in is not for Obama to bear alone. Public opinion will help, I hope.

cathy smithson   January 27th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

So the oath of office is now a joke, well that somehow makes sense as all we have in the White House is a bunch of new clowns.

Randall Arnold   January 27th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

Joe made a mild joke. I'm sure Justice Roberts is a big boy and could roll with it. Everyone else taking offense needs to grow up.

Lynn in NM   January 27th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

Roberts only flubbed the line, he didn't plagiarize it.

Stephy   January 27th, 2009 7:28 pm ET

I have one question: why?

physics   January 27th, 2009 7:28 pm ET

I am afraid our new VP has never recovered from "foot in mouth" disease.

Esther M. cuyahoga falls ohio   January 27th, 2009 7:28 pm ET

i am sure the chief justices is a big boy and can handle a joke now and then

Kaitlin   January 27th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

VP Biden is a good man.

KEVIN   January 27th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

i truly feel that since this in fact will be a common threat with the VP that he should resign or be impeached right now, as soon as possible. Don't let him get comfortable in his position you know. were ready for change america, but not this kinda change

Derek   January 27th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

"We simply have never matured..."

That's encouraging...

Sarah   January 27th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

The rules for the Obama administration are simple:

1. Keep Mr. Biden locked away in a dark hole,
2. Let him into the presence of reporters whenever you get negative attention,
3. Bask in the glory of misdirected reporters, and
4. Return to #1.

If President Bush had a Mr. Biden at his disposal, I'm confident we never would have really noticed the war in Iraq.

Travis King   January 27th, 2009 7:26 pm ET

VP Biden needs to remember that he's the second most powerful man in the world now, not a senator anymore.

mariebuch   January 27th, 2009 7:26 pm ET

Leave Joe alone. My President is a bit humorless, leave it up to Joe to bring a little laughter in the administration.

The man has been in DC for 30+ years, and still sane. Now we know why!

Linda Welch   January 27th, 2009 7:25 pm ET

Joe Biden said what I was thinking on Ignaug day. I think Roberts wanted to use O's middle name so-bad (and he did) that he forgot the oath in the process while trying to be "proper," using the President's full name. Roberts stinks. I am afraid of him and his types.

The Blessed One   January 27th, 2009 7:25 pm ET

Vice-President Biden made a funny ! LOL!

joe the leaf blower   January 27th, 2009 7:24 pm ET

Joe Biden should change his name to Shmoe Biden. Get it? Shmoe?

Umm...   January 27th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

An apology, ya hear that Republicans.... now its your turn... come on, you can do it. Say " I'm sorry America for screwing you blind"

come on... its easy!!!

KEVIN   January 27th, 2009 7:21 pm ET

and please please people, don't listen to them about RUSH. we can listent to who ever we want. Rush is the man, and those who try and stop us from listening to him are guilty of censorship including the president. Rush speakers for how we feel america. Get used to it

UnitedStates1776   January 27th, 2009 7:20 pm ET

Joe,
No need to apologize. Roberts earned that joke.

KEVIN   January 27th, 2009 7:19 pm ET

yeah ya know, joe biden seems like a really nasty jerk. we need less joe bidens, and barack obamas in this world.

Heh!   January 27th, 2009 7:19 pm ET

Dad Obama talked to the kids and made them get along...

Matt   January 27th, 2009 7:18 pm ET

Given Biden's earned reputation, I think this is of little consequence. I think the next 4 years will be much like a soap opera---lots of drama, and the foreboding sense of "Oh no! What disaster will strike next?!"

Ray Fisher   January 27th, 2009 7:16 pm ET

VP Biden and I have the same type of humor commonly exercised without good sense but never serious nor malicious. We simply never have matured...

Obama :-)   January 27th, 2009 7:16 pm ET

Joe doesn't necessarily put his foot in his mouth, he makes light of things that are really not that important. The mistake was made and ultimately corrected. He was not intending on dissing Justice Roberts, but more like...lighten up everyone!

jumbo   January 27th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

i am afraid this will be one of many apologies for vp biden

Jon-Lars   January 27th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

Now there is a headline we will be seeing often..,

Sadie   January 27th, 2009 7:14 pm ET

We love Joe!! He is a good man - with a good heart who sometimes says the wrong thing. But he is still worth has weight in gold!

tony   January 27th, 2009 7:14 pm ET

It was a joke, let it go, do we have to apologize when someone whines about everything, we would say we are sorry every second.

Greg in Denver   January 27th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

I just don't see what the fuss is about. At worst, someone could just not find it funny. But was it really that insulting? I don't get it.

Paul in Alexandria, VA   January 27th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Really. Someone is concerned about a light-hearted joke about the flubbed Inaugural pledge. Really?

With hundreds of billions needed to provide infrastructure improvements and economic stimulus, this is what gets media attention?

Give me a break.

The media should be itemizing every dollar the government spends and analyzing the pros and cons for those expenditure. That is we should be seeing. I mean, really, with all the space on the world wide web, why can't we see a full, detailed, analysis.

P.S. After the drubbing they got, does anyone really want to hear a Republican tell us how to fix anything? Haven't they failed enough on their own? Do we really have to have them try to help Barack fail? After all, the GOP Godfather, Rush Limbaugh, has announced he wants Barack to fail. Isn't that reason enough to ignore the GOP?

Eleanor   January 27th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Kudos To VP Joe Biden for apologizing
I like vice president Joe Biden
Sometimes he speaks off the cuff but thats partly what makes him unique
I think he will make an active awesome vice president

Bill   January 27th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Biden just shows he is not equipped to be a statesman. This also shows President Obama doesn't have the experience to lead. So, when are we going to let those terrorists go run free in the USA? How about that choice for CIA? No experience. How about Secretary of State? Little foreign policy experience. Want tax help? Don't ask our Treasury Secretary, he doesn't pay his, yet is at the top of the enforcement agency to make sure you pay yours. Obama's choices are showing us the light: a lack of experience means you use what you can and for him that is political friends - not experienced servants for the country.

jcow   January 27th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Let's just hope Biden can keep his mouth shut and not make a fool of himself or the United States in Germany. Oh, and let's remember that perhaps it was Obama interrupting the Chief Justice at the beginning of the oath who might have cause the confusion.

miguel   January 27th, 2009 7:12 pm ET

Biden should just issue a blanket apology for all the dopey things he will undoubtedly say in the next four years.

LG   January 27th, 2009 7:11 pm ET

They should lighten up! It's just a joke. It wasn't even that offensive.

Jim   January 27th, 2009 7:11 pm ET

This seems like such a small thing but speaks volumes about Obama. He is a sensitive man who realized immediately that a jab like this was inappropriate. No offense to VP Biden, but it comes from the old school thinking of partisanship...or it could have been some friendly needling. However, we will never know how the judge truly feels about the flub. Let's error on the side of being sensitive to others.

Tom   January 27th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

LOL, epic pic.

Jan Illinois   January 27th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

When aids say no more than that, you can bet it was tense.

Laura   January 27th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

Anyone who actually watched the inauguration would know it was just as much Obama's fault. He started in too early which then confused Robert's and then back to Obama. It is funny to see which articles also put the blame on both and which articles do not..

MET   January 27th, 2009 7:08 pm ET

I found it funny. GO Biden!

Republican for Obama - TX   January 27th, 2009 7:08 pm ET

That's Joe being Joe. Everyone knows and loves him just as he is. He is never going to change. I love you Joe!!!

phalin   January 27th, 2009 7:08 pm ET

It just amazes me how people take themselve too seriously. Just further proof that we, as a country, have pretty much lost our sense of humor.

CK4NYSenate2010   January 27th, 2009 7:06 pm ET

oops... apologize

CK4NYSenate2010   January 27th, 2009 7:06 pm ET

apoligize for anything Joe Biden didn't need to. Yoda we have found!

Splurge   January 27th, 2009 7:05 pm ET

He shouldn't have to apologize for his personality since Obama knew what he was getting into with his VP pick. Obama is simply humorless unless all the attention is on him. I thought we were done with presidential ego. Guess not.

malclave   January 27th, 2009 7:04 pm ET

I don't see the big deal.

Biden is a liberal. Given the chance to express his hatred of someone he considers an enemy (a Chief Justice nominated by a Republican), of course he can't restrain himself.

Dog bites man.

RufusVonDufus   January 27th, 2009 7:04 pm ET

Joe Biden is a complete arse and is a joke as VP. No more than Obama is as president, though, so what's the difference. Biden has always suffered from "foot in mouth" disease and this is why he has never been seriously considered until this Osama guy picked him. The good stuff has yet to surface. Joe will be the butt of many jokes to come.

Susanna   January 27th, 2009 7:04 pm ET

If we can't joke about honest mistakes, then what is this world coming to? As a sensitive person myself, I still think it's only natural and fun to tease Roberts for his honest mistake and rather hysterical, historical flub.

Jeremy   January 27th, 2009 7:03 pm ET

I predict there will be a lot of this over the next 8 years. I expect he will serve his country well, but the guy has a mouth on him.

Phil   January 27th, 2009 7:03 pm ET

That's funny, very funny. This guy can't keep his mouth shut. He's got a big mouth, and people like it...

RealityKing   January 27th, 2009 7:01 pm ET

Ohhhhh that just the doofus coming out in Biden, it's OK..

BJ   January 27th, 2009 7:01 pm ET

I'm glad that he apologized. At the time, I myself, thought it was inappropriate and disrespectful. It takes a big man to do that. Good on you Joe. I wish you and President Obama two successful terms.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 7:01 pm ET

ZOMG!!! They should fire Biden!!!1

Sue   January 27th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Yeah, you could tell Obama was NOT amused. He's probably pretty sorely disappointed that his big historical moment was ruined, but more importantly, he doesn't want Biden antagonizing Roberts, and the GOP as a whole. Obama's going to need their support.

Debbie   January 27th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Oh come on.......how sensitive are we being – we should be glad our politicians can have a light hearted sense of humor in these trying times......I am so tired of the over reactions by a "few"

Flo   January 27th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Good for VP Biden.............he's making sure no harm no foul.

JP   January 27th, 2009 6:58 pm ET

WHATEVER...it was a joke and Justice Roberts deserved a little poke for flubbing the oath. People need to lighten up. The Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court should be able to deliver something like this flawlessly. Since he didn't, he should have a thick enough skin to take the heat. VP Biden should not have apologized.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 6:58 pm ET

Is this guy really our V.P.?

Marie HESTER   January 27th, 2009 6:57 pm ET

Mr. President: Please don't step on a little Irish levity at this frightening time in our history. There was no harm done, you covered beautifully for the Chief Justice. We need V.P.Biden's optimistic outlook to balance the seriousness of the position that you asked to hold. You have my wishes for wisdom, patience and faith in the years ahead.
Marie Sullivan Hester

Ken in NC   January 27th, 2009 6:56 pm ET

Vice President Biden will have to remember to become a more serious person now and understand that the President may want to make fun of someone elses flub but he will not because he knows he wants their support.

Derrick   January 27th, 2009 6:56 pm ET

Well, either we joke about it...or we hire someone who will not botch administering what amounts to a 30 plus word oath......c'mon! It wasn't intended to be offensive...really now..

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 27th, 2009 6:56 pm ET

Remember during Obama's campaign he was ask which justices he would not have picked, Roberts and Clarence Thomas.

Matt   January 27th, 2009 6:55 pm ET

I don't understand our government. A harmless joke and you are forced to apologize? Come on.

person   January 27th, 2009 6:55 pm ET

why should Biden apologize, Jon Roberts was a disgrace.

Marcia Banta   January 27th, 2009 6:54 pm ET

Tempest in a teapot.

BTW...Obama didn't seem confused. He pasued to give Roberts time to correct and when he failed to do so repeated – not corrected – the oath as it was presented to him. I'd say his wheels turned pretty fast and he made the correct decision given the circumstances.

Desmond Sequeira   January 27th, 2009 6:53 pm ET

I'll say it again. Joe Biden is whom we need to lighten up the "gravitas" of politics. I liked his style throughout the whole inauguration, especially in his walkabout. Though I can imagine the Chief Justice may not have wanted the blunder to be noted yet again (IN ADDITION TO THE SCORES OF TIMES CNN AND EVERY OTHER MEDIA DID SO) , I am sure he took Biden's quip with a sense of humour.

Rachel, MO   January 27th, 2009 6:52 pm ET

I love Joe Biden. There isn't a mean bone in his body. I'm sure he didn't mean anything by it. Move on CNN.

Matthew in OK   January 27th, 2009 6:52 pm ET

Boo-flippin-Hoo, it was a funny moment, and a good-natured joke. I personally found it hilarious. It was just a slip up, it could have happened to anyone but it happened to him. Everyone else was laughing so why can't he?

It amazes me how childish people can be.

C,ca   January 27th, 2009 6:52 pm ET

Good grief people are thin-skinned lately. It was a stupid joke. That's all. Don't these people have anything better to do?

Joe Unger, San Francisco   January 27th, 2009 6:51 pm ET

Obama is kind of a serious sort. Now George Bush would have been a fun guy to hang out with, away from politics. Obama might light up at a Star Wars convention though.
I seriously doubt Obama and Biden talked much about his joke.

bored   January 27th, 2009 6:51 pm ET

i'm sure CJ Roberts new it was in good fun. you don't have to be quite so serious all the time.
geeeeeeeeez

Karen   January 27th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

Not surprising! Think of what would be happening if he had been OFFERED the position of Secretary of State. How many countries would he have offended by this time, and how many more "situations or issues" would have been inadvertently discussed by Dr. Jill? Thank God we have Hillary, regardless of how Mrs. Biden stated that her husband had turned down this offer.

Paul H   January 27th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

My prediction is that by the time Obamas term is over (Depending on how left they veer the country) four to eight years. That America will be somewhat surprised, and maybe pleased by the way Obama handled foreign affairs. Race issues will be farther along, and better than ever, the economy will cycle back around by this time, and his administration can take credit for it, and the abortion business will be booming! I also predict that by the end of that time people will be sick of the Democrats and be ready for change yet again. They will be sick of the Global warming agenda(expensive cars, taxes on BBQ grills via carbon credits, and no camp fires after midnight), we will be sick of Nancy Pelosi, and the still low approval rated congress. And they will be sick of the extreme left influence on our politicians. Biden will have stuck both feet in his mouth by then. Conservatives will win by landslide because of these things, a women will be elected President because of her gender regardless of her experience (these things happen).
So lets just sit back and support our President.

Will   January 27th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

I'm a conservative and thought that line was pretty witty and funny.

Alan   January 27th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

You would have thought that out of over 300,000,000 people we could have found two better "clowns" to lead this country. Although the media would never admit it nor report it, I have a feeling that there is a lot of voter remorse out there. At least among the educated taxpayers!

Chris   January 27th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

Why apologize? I think its kinda funny. People are too sensitive.

dave   January 27th, 2009 6:49 pm ET

Joe Biden is a joke. He failed in his bid for the White House and is on the ticket for only one reason-foriegn relations. He should have been secretary of state and hilary should go home and bake cookies for slick willy.
You will see as time goes on that Joe can't keep his mouth shut and that things he thinks are funny are embarrasing to the president.

Lynn   January 27th, 2009 6:49 pm ET

An administration who can admit to, and take responsibility for, their blunders, bungles, bloopers and oopses - what a welcome and refreshing change!

Snake eyes   January 27th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

TO BE FAIR, ROBERTS SCREWED UP THE MOST IMPORTANT INAUGURATION CEREMONY SINCE KENNEDY (TO DEMOCRATS ANYWAY), SO I THINK SOME JABBING IS FAIR.
BUT IN THE SPIRIT OF BIPARTISANSHIP, THE SNIPING SHOULD COME TO A CLOSE.
YET STILL ON THE OTHER HAND, A GOOD LAUGH AT THE EXPENSE OF A COLLEAGUE SHOULDNT BE THAT BIG OF A DEAL....

ike   January 27th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

Should'nt Judge Roberts be the one apologizing. He's the one that made the mistake.

Lee   January 27th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

what's new? joe with his foot in his mouth and egg on his face...obama must be sooooo proud!

Cynde   January 27th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

Oh, who cares? I realize that Mr. Obama is an advocate of, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all, " and it was obvious from his demeanor (and the gentle nudge he gave Biden immediately after Biden said this) that he didn't approve of the comment. Nevertheless, it was a light-hearted joke, and for those of us who really dislike Roberts and believe his legal logic leaves much to be desired, it was refreshing. Roberts was quite arrogant to think that he could come out in front of 1.8 million people without a script at the inauguration, and Biden simply called him on that arrogance. Biden should not have apologized because he did nothing wrong.

Ms. Johnson, Pearland,Texas   January 27th, 2009 6:47 pm ET

Let Joe be Joe... what was their to apologize for. The fact is the Chief Justice messed up 35 words the apology should come from him.

BB   January 27th, 2009 6:47 pm ET

One thing about it -- when all Americans are out of work (except the wealthy owners), the wealthy will have to be the ones supplying the tax base – bet their taxes go way up then.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2009 6:46 pm ET

who

the

hell

cares

Pete   January 27th, 2009 6:46 pm ET

Get ready for 4 years of "Biden apologizes for..."

Dude need to learn how to shut his pie hole. His wife, too.

the thought police   January 27th, 2009 6:46 pm ET

The Justices need term limits.Life time appointments are for the birds.

Donald Whitehawk   January 27th, 2009 6:46 pm ET

Biden is a joke, has always been a joke, and will remain a joke long after he is dead.

SteveinAZ   January 27th, 2009 6:45 pm ET

Big deal, I thought it was funny. Get over yourselves America!

Mathis86   January 27th, 2009 6:45 pm ET

Well thanks to this clown late night comedians have at least 4 more years of material!

tjp, valley forge, pa   January 27th, 2009 6:45 pm ET

Just the beginning, I'm afraid, for VP Biden and his ill conceived statements. He'll be fodder for the late night guys for the next 4 years.

Bill / California   January 27th, 2009 6:45 pm ET

I like Joe Biden, but I have a feeling we're going to see "Biden Apologizes for Joke" as a headline more than a couple of times the next 4-8 years....

Kris in AL   January 27th, 2009 6:44 pm ET

THE FIRST OF MANY APOLOGIES THE VICE PRESIDENT WILL OFFER.

VP BIDEN IS A VERBAL TRAIN WRECK THAT KEEPS WRECKING OVER AND OVER.

Jeanne   January 27th, 2009 6:43 pm ET

Joe, you should know most of the people in this country can't take a joke!!! You need to be more careful under your microscope!!

Ernie in LA   January 27th, 2009 6:43 pm ET

More trash coming from his mouth? He needs to shut up. Sounds like Obama chewed his butt. I hate to think that this man travels to other countries as a spokesperson for the US. And you Dems thought Palin said some crazy stuff?

Dawn Forde   January 27th, 2009 6:42 pm ET

Who cares

Mr. Jonathan   January 27th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

C'mon Joe,
Not everybody shares your sense of humor and playful ribbing.
I mean, I thought what you said was pretty funny, but you oughta know that politics can be tricky. And that sometimes a joke like that becomes a real gaff after it goes through the media filter.
Tell ya what Joe, before you crack another good one. Make sure you tell it to your collegues first. Pause and decide whether cretins like fox news wont jump on it like white on rice, and give their unoriginal and over zealous pundits hours of banter.

Zion   January 27th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

So, shouldn't somebody laugh at the whole thing? Dang.....I can't take people who do not have a sense of humor.

Emma   January 27th, 2009 6:40 pm ET

I hope Roberts apologized for flubbing the oath!

dan   January 27th, 2009 6:40 pm ET

Good, he should have apologized. The joke was completely out of line and you could tell it did not make Obama too happy!

Peggy in Ohio   January 27th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

God love him, he just says what's on his mind..

m4rk   January 27th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

First of many Biden mishaps.

Independent Voter   January 27th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

Biden has had so many problems in the past with his off-the-cuff remarks – often tactless and distasteful – often after a few drinks. He was a very bad choice to be VP and let's hope and pray there will never be a need for him to become Commander in Chief. One thing we can be sure of is that this won't be the last of his apolgies....

darrell   January 27th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

hey, it was a funny comment and i am sure that the vice president did not mean any disrespect to the chief justice. it would have been nice if the president had a least cracked a smile. show us that you have a since of humor Mr. President!!

Sean Chong   January 27th, 2009 6:37 pm ET

Why should we be so serious about life? Bush left a void on funny stuffs from the White House, Biden should definitely take over that role, but in a better way.....

California Gold   January 27th, 2009 6:36 pm ET

Jill Biden opens her mouth on Oprah and shoves both feet inside while her husband grins like a 'possum. Joe Biden opens his mouth on a solemn occasion and shoves both feet inside while grinning like a 'possum. Who says opposites attract.

Kim   January 27th, 2009 6:36 pm ET

Great. A week in office, and he's already stuck his size elevens in his mouth. Not that I expected much else from him. The next 4 years should be pretty interesting.

tigerbiteone   January 27th, 2009 6:34 pm ET

Biden must be cousins to Blagovevich.

Linda   January 27th, 2009 6:34 pm ET

Vice President Biden,
We are so lucky that you are our Vice President. You know it could have been Sarah Palin or another. From your years of experience and knowledge of foreign policy you know that the planet is extremely vulnerble to the severe and dangerous impacts of unresolved and escalating conflicts, immaturities, and misunderstandings In Israel, Palestine, the entire middle east, Russia, and China. You know that often distrust and failure to talk and negotiate result from tacit insults and injuries, sometimes simply because of linguistic or cultural differences. You are a most mature person who managed to serve as a senator while being a single parent. Your intelligence, experience, and wisdom in foreign relations is desparately needed and we rely on you, God forbid, to step in should anything happen to President Obama. You have a proble in making inappropriate jokes and inappropriate remarks...without thinking of the impact and consequences...it it never about a serious matter....usually meant to make a joke or be friendly or personal or get some attention or emotional support, but it is inappropriate because it may insult and hurt someone's feelings or be misinterpreted undermining your power and respect. Please analyze why you do this and try to stop. It can be dangereous and damaging and is baggage you do not need. Thank you

Vero   January 27th, 2009 6:33 pm ET

I don't think Mr. Biden meant it in a bad way. Alot of people say things and people take it different. Obama was just being more serious which was okay too. Good Luck to both of them.

Matt   January 27th, 2009 6:32 pm ET

haha, at least he's not stuck apologizing for all the things Bush did wrong like Obama

MICHELLE   January 27th, 2009 6:31 pm ET

oh geez..it was a joke..nothing more nothing less.
I'm tired of people apologizing after saying what they mean..

Just shut up   January 27th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

Biden needs to keep his mouth shut. What an idiot.

JR   January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Biden is a mouthy guy that will keep hurting Obama. He has a history of saying stupid stuff to hurt and bring down others while trying to feed his ego. Obama knew it when he chose him. He chose him and deserves what he gets with the buffoon.

Enough   January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Wise to apologize & keep working toward peace. Narcissists can't take a joke.

steve b   January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Joe being Joe

if you like him or not, you had to know getting into this he has history of running off at the mouth.

BB   January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Got a job for you Ed. Did Microsoft bring in more green-card workers and then let Americans go unemployed? FIND OUT SOMETHING

Remi Murphy   January 27th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

this lacks importance

Leza   January 27th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Who cares...I mean really. People need to lighten up. Roberts did, in fact, flub the oath. Big deal!! Obama became president at noon according to the constitution regardless of in what order the oath was said. People are so sensitive. It's not like Biden publically humiliated Roberts. I bet Roberts wasn't as "offended" as others, and the joke was about him.

For goodness sakes....lighten up, and get back to town business.

Mac   January 27th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

what's the punchline?

Dreaming of Justice   January 27th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Joe, you jokey jokester!

lmao

James   January 27th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Instead of having to apologize every day, Biden should try to do what for him is impossible: STAY ON MESSAGE and avoid comments on anything else. John Roberts merely showed that everyone is human, even the Chief Justice. Everyone makes mistakes, but harping on them will just give the media an excuse to focus on that instead of the real issues. Biden is the last person who should be throwing stones. Biden's "jokes" are distracting from the Obama Administration's legislative goals. But unfortunately for American, he can't help himself.

hello   January 27th, 2009 6:27 pm ET

Good for you Joe,even though it was only in good fun, maybe not good timing.

Mark   January 27th, 2009 6:27 pm ET

Joe is a JOKE.... I hope Obama can controll him and his big mouth.
Mark

BJ   January 27th, 2009 6:24 pm ET

I don't find Joe Biden to be very profession. Of course he can hold back the words and not have to apologize later. Some things are meant to joke about in your own home but not at work, especially when you are VP.

BB   January 27th, 2009 6:24 pm ET

CNNs Ed Henry has nothing to discuss. We already knew this. Just ranting on again Ed?

No wars? No soldiers killed? No jobs lost? No one homeless or hungry?

Gee – no news. How great (sarcasm).

Shirley in California   January 27th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

He and his wife both acted very foolishly during the inauguration. Please VP Biden think BEFORE you speak.

Erik S.   January 27th, 2009 6:21 pm ET

Empty suit. It's funny, you go from a Vice President that held vice presidential power to one who is going to have less say and influence than an intern, and from his "jokes" that might be a good thing.

Griff   January 27th, 2009 6:20 pm ET

Squabalish? I suggest you learn to live with One-Another...

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