A microphone picked up Biden uttering the "F" word Tuesday in the majestic East Room of the White House, as President Obama signed the historic health care reform bill into law.
After delivering a rousing introduction of the president in which he praised Obama's "perseverance" and "clarity of purpose," Biden turned to embrace his boss.
As the crowd of approximately 300 people cheered wildly, Biden turned to Obama and said with a big smile, "This is a big f-- deal!"
The president did not react to the comment, apparently aware that the microphones may have picked up the words.
Shortly after the ceremony, White House Press Secretary used his Twitter feed to try and diffuse any controversy.
"And yes Mr. Vice President, you're right..." Gibbs tweeted from his @PressSec Twitter account.
An aide to the vice president pointed reporters seeking comment to Gibb's tweet.
The vice president is known for unscripted moments, but not in such a high-profile setting as a bill-signing ceremony in the East Room. According to the White House Historical Association, first lady Abigail Adams was famous for using the room to dry her laundry. President John F. Kennedy lay in state in the East Room after his assassination in 1963.
It is a big "f......." deal! And it is about time!!
this story isn't a big f– deal
health care reform is a big f–deal
This is the beginning of socialism. Once the government has control over your health care then they will have control over your life. In the past 40 years we have been raising a citizenry that believes they are entitled to other peoples earnings. In the old days you were responsible for the outcome of your life so you took responsibility for your line. Now the current generation believes the government owes them a livelihood and are not challenging themsels. This is the beginning of the end of self reliance.
Speaking of errors in word choice, I believe Mr. Henry meant to say Gibbs used his Twitter feed to try and "defuse" any controversy. Diffuse means something else. Also, I believe that would be a reference to Gibbs' tweet, not Gibb's tweet (unless Mr. Gibb is now the Whitehouse Press Secretary). You know, as a national news organization, you are supposed to set the standard for editorial prowess. This entry, among other examples on your website, leaves much to be desired. Illiteracy may be a problem in this country, but I would think an organization like CNN could set an example for others to follow.
Those Socialist Dems are so classy, aren't they?
Hey Mr Vice President!
At least yer honest unscripted. And you are right, it is a big f*&^% deal!
EVERYBODY uses this word from kids to GrandMothers. It has become a very common word although very abrasive to some.
And it is a big F deal to have this legislation passed.
I hope nobody makes a "Big F'n Deal" about this! Leave it alone.
Wow! It's headline news! A major world event that warrants extensive coverage by CNN!! The VP dropped the F bomb. Such an important matter to cover. Thank you CNN for your marvelous journalism. What would we do without you??? Must be a really slow news day.
Is this seriously an issue?
Seriously? This is what is getting reported?
I agree it was a "big F moment"......
And he was right. It is a big f"in" deal. Thank God it passed.
Why are we surprised? This administration has never had any respect for the White House. If truth be known, this is mild to what probably goes on. This is the administration of 'no class'.
Mr. Biden, remember where you are. The White House deserves your respect and decorum. That includes your language.
This f-bomb is not a big bleeping deal.
Big deal, it was not a derogatory comment aimed at any one unlike the comments we heard yesterday. Let's move on without making a big deal of it.
Joe, If anyone could or would say it Joe would be the one..... And yes, This is a Big Deal!!!!
We give the F-bomb to republicans everyday.Our dog can smell them coming up the walkway.
Trashy and embarrassing, I'm ashamed they're running our country.
F*%$ yeah, that's what I like to see...some politicians who aren't afraid to throw the ol' F word around with open mic's in proximity.
Big deal. In today's world it certainly isn't worth a comment although he should be a little more discreet
Yes, Mr Vice President, it is a big f......g deal, indeed.
so? it is a big fing deal!
whooooaaaaa!!! it is a big f–g deal son... Go get them Joe!!! at least he wasn't speaking of a republican or another person.. how many of us wouldn't have said something similar in a similar situation!!!