Former Vice President Joe Biden kicked off his speech before an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers conference on Friday in Washington, D.C., with a joke about the recent controversy over whether he touched women inappropriately in the past.

I just want you to know, I had permission to hug Lonnie, Biden told the crowd after embracing the organizations president, Lonnie Stephenson, who introduced him.

Biden then hung his head as the crowd laughed and cheered.

I dont know, man. Anyway, he continued, launching into his speech about the dignity of blue-collar work.

Later, after having invited a group of kids up to the stage, Biden shook their hands and put his arm around one boys shoulders before recycling the joke.

By the way, he gave me permission to touch him, he said, again.