House Republicans have announced their plan to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress. This is in response to Hunter’s refusal to comply with subpoenas requiring his attendance at a closed-door interview as part of an ongoing investigation into the Biden family. [Source]
House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-KY), in conjunction with House Judiciary Committee leader Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH), has scheduled markup meetings to discuss a resolution to hold Hunter Biden in contempt.
Hunter Biden decided to issue a public statement outside the Capitol instead of appearing at a deposition with congressional investigators last month. He appeared at the U.S. Capitol Building on the day he was summoned for an interview, challenging Comer to allow him a public hearing. “What are they afraid of? I’m here. I’m ready,” Hunter Biden declared to the press. [Source]
“Our investigation has produced significant evidence suggesting President Biden knew of, participated in, and benefitted from his family cashing in on the Biden name,” stated Comer and Jordan. “Hunter Biden blatantly defied two lawful subpoenas, opting for a public statement over testimony as required.”
The scheduled meeting to consider the resolution will take place on January 10 at 10:00 a.m. EST at the Rayburn House Office Building. This action by the House Republicans reflects a firm stance against what they perceive as Hunter Biden’s disregard for congressional authority.
“Hunter Biden’s willful refusal to comply with our subpoenas constitutes contempt of Congress and warrants referral to the appropriate United States Attorney’s Office for prosecution,” Comer and Jordan emphasized. “We will not provide him with special treatment because of his last name.”
The House Republicans have been investigating Hunter Biden’s business dealings and any potential involvement of President Biden, though they have yet to establish criminal wrongdoing by the President. Their efforts culminated last month with a formalized impeachment inquiry into President Biden.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), the ranking member on the Oversight Committee, criticized the Republicans’ approach. “There is no precedent for the U.S. House of Representatives holding a private citizen in contempt of Congress who has offered to testify in public, under oath, and on a day of the Committee’s choosing,” he pointed out. [Source]
House Republicans continue to assert their commitment to the investigation, signaling a contentious period ahead in Congress.
This story is still developing…