In a new statement defending former Vice President Joe Biden, spokesman Bill Russo argued on Monday that some of the images that have been circulated in the wake of former candidate for Nevada lieutenant governor Lucy Flores’ story are “smears” and “forgeries” used by “right wing trolls” to hurt Biden.
He singled out a picture of Biden with his hands on the shoulders of Stephanie Carter, wife of former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, at his swearing in. The picture had been shared as evidence of Biden’s inappropriate behavior, but Carter wrote a blog post Monday saying that she did not feel uncomfortable and that Biden is a friend who was offering support.
Flores alleged that Biden once unexpectedly kissed her on the head, a move she does not feel rises to the level of sexual harassment, but she believes is nonetheless inappropriate and unprofessional.
Biden responded with a statement saying that he did not mean to cause any discomfort and pledged to listen to Flores and any other woman who has had a similar experience.
Read Russo’s full statement here via a Yahoo News reporter:
NEW- Biden spokesman Bill Russo responds to fallout from Lucy Flores’ accusation by saying some of the awkward photos she cited are “smears and forgeries.” pic.twitter.com/hlbXCwKNVi
— Hunter Walker (@hunterw) April 1, 2019
