Vice President Joe Biden mixes up the Irish PM’s late father with his living mother.
It was gaffe central at the White House – starring, who else, Vice President Joe Biden. This time, the blunder involved someone’s mother.
During Biden’s remarks at the White House celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, he began telling a story about Ireland’s Prime Minister Brian Cowen’s mother living in New York.
“The Taoiseach knows a lot about it. His Mom lived in Long Island for 10 years or so… God rest her soul…,” Biden said.
Pause. Reflect on what you said... Wait a second, Cowen’s mother is still alive!
At least Biden caught himself: “…although, she’s… wait… your Mom’s still… your Mom is still alive. It was your Dad passed. God BLESS her soul. I gotta get this straight.”
There was no love lost. The Irish leader didn't seem to mind, proudly proclaiming Biden "one of our own."
International crisis avoided.
It was then on to the Radio and TV Correspondents' Dinner, where Biden cracked some jokes at all of Washington's expense...
