White House pushes back on criticism of VP Biden levelled in new book from Robert Gates

WASHINGTON – The White House is pushing back against criticism that former Defence Secretary Robert Gates has levelled against Vice-President Joe Biden in a new book.

Gates’ memoir is titled “Duty: Memoirs of a Secretary at War.” He is quoted as saying Biden has been wrong on nearly every major foreign policy and national security issue of the last four decades.

White House spokeswoman Caitlin Hayden says President Barack Obama disagrees. She says Biden has been a leading statesman and has advanced U.S. leadership abroad. Hayden says Obama relies on Biden’s good counsel every day.

Responding to another Gates claim, that Obama lost confidence in the Afghanistan surge, Hayden says the president has always welcomed different views within his team.

Gates served under Obama and former President George W. Bush.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.