Is Joe Biden out of touch on race?

Does Joe Biden have outdated views on race? The former vice president faced criticism recently for his handling of racial issues, both for his past policy positions and for comments he has made on the subject in the past few weeks. Biden's critics believe he holds antiquated views on race. Although not accusing Biden of being racist, they argue he routinely took policy positions that kowtowed to white racial fears and had a negative impact on black and brown Americans. Biden's defenders say he is being unfairly maligned for not pandering to the liberal wing of his party. They argue that Biden's overall record — in the Senate and as vice president under Barack Obama — proves he is a champion of minority rights.