America’s Vice President-elect Joseph Robinette “Joe” Biden hails from the smallest state in the nation. He began his congressional career as the fifth youngest senator of all time. At the age of 29 in 1972, he was elected to his first term in U.S. Senate. Biden would go on to become Delaware’s longest-serving senator. During his tenure, this Delaware senator has developed a reputation for his leadership in foreign policy, his championship for education, and his unwavering commitment to the citizens of the Delaware and his genuine care for their interests.

Representing one of the smaller states in the country is no easy task. Yet, the influence Biden wields in the company of such Senatorial legends as Maryland’s Mikulski, New York’s Clinton, and Pennsylvania’s Specter (not to mention Illinois’ Obama and Arizona’s McCain) makes him one of the most respected elected officials in Congress.

Though born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Vice President-elect Joe Biden is a hometown hero. He moved to Delaware with his family at the age of 10 and has called the state his home ever since. Biden got his start in an area of Delaware called New Castle County. Its motto is “The First County in the First State” and it is home to dozens of historical sites.

It is rumored that Biden travels to Washington, DC each day Congress is in session via Amtrak, and that he commuted this way for several years. The trip is about 3 hours each way, making for a six-hour roundtrip journey back and forth to work. Though long commute times are par for the course for employees in the DC area, Biden’s situation is different because many elected officials opt to rent or buy residences during the session rather than making long commutes. Biden’s travel exemplifies his commitment to his state and to remaining close to the people he represents.

As with any human being, Biden is prone to controversy at times. But he continues to represent the state of Delaware with his very best. Now, as Vice President elect, Joe Biden will prepare to represent not only the smallest state in the nation, but perhaps one of the most influential countries in the world. Sometimes the best things come in small packages.

**Also check out Biden’s congressional website for an astounding pictorial biography.**