US (Washington Insider Magazine) -Attorney General Merrick Garland faced a marathon session of questioning Tuesday before the House Judiciary Committee, defending the Justice Department’s handling of several high-profile criminal cases, including those involving Donald Trump and Hunter Biden. The hearing, which lasted around five hours, saw Garland firmly push back against Republican claims that the DOJ is being weaponized against conservatives.
Garland’s testimony comes shortly after Republican-led committees voted to advance contempt proceedings against him for refusing to turn over audio recordings of President Joe Biden’s interview with special counsel Robert Hur. Despite the pressure, Garland remained defiant, stating he would not compromise future investigations by sharing sensitive materials.
5 Key Takeaways from the Hearing:
1. ‘I Will Not Be Intimidated’
Garland opened his testimony by addressing the “unprecedented” attacks on the Justice Department, making it clear he would not be swayed by political pressure. He vowed to uphold the rule of law and protect the DOJ from political influence. “We will not back down from defending democracy,” Garland said, emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling his duties impartially.
2. Hush Money Case Highlights DOJ Independence
Lawmakers frequently referenced Trump’s recent conviction in the New York hush money case. Garland stressed that the Manhattan District Attorney’s office operates independently of the DOJ and does not report to federal authorities. He made it clear that the department has no role in state-level prosecutions such as Trump’s hush money case, despite claims by House Republicans that Biden is targeting Trump through the DOJ.
3. Jack Smith’s Appointment Defended
During a tense exchange with Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, Garland defended his decision to appoint Jack Smith as special counsel to investigate Trump. Smith’s appointment led to two criminal cases being filed against the former president. Garland praised Smith’s nonpartisan and extensive prosecutorial background, stating he had no regrets about the selection.
4. Hunter Biden Investigation in the Spotlight
As Hunter Biden’s gun trial began in Delaware, Republican lawmakers used the hearing to focus on the president’s son. Garland denied ever speaking to Hunter Biden and rejected GOP accusations of obstruction in the case. He also reaffirmed that he could not comment on ongoing investigations.
5. Democratic Defense of DOJ
Democratic lawmakers pushed back against Republican attacks, listing the numerous Trump allies prosecuted under the previous administration. Rep. Ted Lieu noted that many of Trump’s associates were convicted under attorneys general appointed by Trump, emphasizing that DOJ’s actions were not politically motivated. Lieu also highlighted that Hunter Biden is currently being prosecuted by Garland’s DOJ, further underlining the department’s independence.
Throughout the hearing, Garland maintained his position that the Justice Department would remain apolitical and continue to pursue justice, despite mounting pressure from both sides of the political aisle.
