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'Creepy Uncle' Biden Mocked On Twitter

Vice President Joe Biden has been mocked on social media after getting up close and personal with the wife of the new defence secretary during his swearing-in ceremony.

As Ash Carter began speaking at the White House, Mr Biden beckoned Stephanie Carter from across the room, then put both hands on her shoulders - just as her husband thanked the VP for presiding over the ceremony.

Mr Biden's hands lingered for roughly 20 seconds until he leaned in and whispered in her ear.

What he was confiding is unclear, but the image was captured on camera and gave Twitter users a field day.

"Joe Biden channels everyone's creepy uncle," wrote user @allipearson.

"U.S.'s lovable-but-creepy Uncle Joe got way too touchy (and whispery!) with new #SecDef's wife," said another, @the_ken_leonard.

Mr Biden is no stranger to improvisation - or to gaffes.

He has built a brand on his tendency to speak his mind, endearing him to those who crave authenticity from political leaders but also providing fodder to his critics and late-night comedians.

In 2006, then-Senator Biden told an Indian-American supporter that in Delaware, "you cannot go to a 7-Eleven or a Dunkin' Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent".

Mr Biden's aides said he simply meant to highlight the vibrant Indian-American community in his home state.

And during Barack Obama's first inauguration he was overheard dropping the F-word close to a mic. Not to mention his perennial grin.

Mr Biden, who has run for president twice before, has said he is considering running again in 2016.