The U.S. Justice Department has rejected demands from House Republicans to hand over audio recordings of President Joe Biden‘s interviews with Special Counsel Robert Hur, whose investigation into Biden’s memory stirred controversy.
Hur’s decision not to pursue criminal charges against Biden for retaining classified records during his tenure as vice president under Barack Obama drew criticism from Republicans, contrasting with charges brought against former President Donald Trump for similar actions post-presidency.
Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte emphasized that the department had already furnished all information requested in a congressional subpoena, including certain transcribed interviews from Hur’s inquiry.
In a letter to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan and House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, Uriarte urged avoiding escalation and conflict.
Comer reiterated the Republican-led panels’ commitment to obtaining the sought-after information, expressing a desire for transparency.
House Republicans have warned of holding Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt if the department fails to provide all records requested.
Hur’s decision in February not to charge Biden, citing his cooperation and purported “poor memory” due to age, ignited debate.
Uriarte argued that lawmakers have received substantial information related to Hur’s probe, including transcripts of interviews with Biden and his memoir ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer.
Despite Republican pressure, the Justice Department stands firm, maintaining that it has provided extensive documentation regarding the investigation into Biden’s handling of classified materials post-vice presidency.
