Pep talk, Joltin’ Joe style.

WASHINGTON – Vice President Joseph R. Biden gave an election-year pep talk to House Democrats Friday, saying their political prospects in the fall will look brighter than they do right now.

“Between now and November is three political lifetimes,” Mr. Biden said at the Democrats’ annual retreat on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. “I can’t imagine our prospects being viewed by the press and everyone else as being a whole hell of a lot brighter by the time we turn to September than now.”

Mr. Biden, who didn’t mention the unpopular Affordable Care Act that is energizing Republican candidates and voters, said the public sides with Democrats on issues that affect the middle class.

“They are with us,” Mr. Biden said. “Let’s go out and make every single effort not just to defend, but to aggressively push our agenda. I’m optimistic about America’s prospects, and I’m optimistic about our prospects. So keep your eye on the ball.”