White House introduces new 'Being Biden' audio series

The White House on Thursday introduced a new online audio series featuring Vice President Biden, the latest in a series of moves elevating the vice president's public role within the Obama administration.

"In this audio series Vice President Biden will tell the story behind a photo – of where he was, why it matters to him, and how the experience fits into the broader narrative of this Administration," the website explains. "From meetings at the White House to travels around the country, the Vice President will share his perspective in candid, behind-the-scenes snapshots. In other words, he’ll explain what it’s like 'Being Biden.' "

The first installment features Biden explaining a photograph taken at a recent charity dinner with a sportsmen's association. The vice president spearheaded the Obama administration's gun safety commission in the aftermath of the Newtown, Conn., elementary school shooting, and met with a variety of stakeholders — including gun rights' groups.

“All the money goes to charity and then there’s an auction and they auction off guns and bows and all that money as well goes to, originally went to defray the costs and expenses of a buddy of theirs who was injured in a hunting accident years ago and now it goes to help people in need," Biden explains of the charity dinner. The accompanying photo shows Biden in an apron, greeting sportsmen outside a kitchen.

“I know these guys, and I know an awful lot of them. I’ve been doing it for over 30 years. They’re my friends, but the point is they are absolutely, totally responsible,” Biden said.

The White House did not indicate how regularly the website would be updated, but the administration has given Biden a bigger stage in recent months. In addition to spearheading the president's gun control effort, Biden played a central role in negotiations to pass the Violence Against Women Act and the fiscal-cliff deal earlier this year.

The Web series could also be a sign that Biden is hoping to broaden his reach before a potential 2016 run. Although the vice president has been noncommittal, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is considered the odds-on favorite were she to run, many believe that Biden is interested in mounting his own bid for the White House at the end of President Obama's second term.

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