Washington, D.C (Washington Insider Magazine) – The inquiry by the special counsel examining President Joe Biden’s handling of classified documents is almost over. The ten-month investigation, which has involved multiple witnesses, has progressed significantly with Special Counsel Robert Hur’s recent interview with President Biden, sources told CNN. Biden willingly took part in the two-day interview that was planned weeks in advance, the White House revealed.
Sources indicate that investigators aim to wrap up by year-end. While it remains uncertain if charges will be filed, those familiar with the probe suggest it is unlikely, noting the absence of grand jury activity. The Justice Department stated that Hur will produce a detailed report outlining his findings.
Investigation Scope and Procedures
In January, Hur was appointed after secret documents were found at Biden’s Wilmington, Delaware, home and old office at the Penn Biden Center. His inquiry has been much more covert than Special Counsel Jack Smith’s well-publicized examination of records at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
According to CNN, Biden’s advisers have expressed frustration with the investigation’s length, given the limited number of documents involved. Some aides believe Attorney General Merrick Garland was unduly careful in selecting Hur, a former Trump appointment, to maintain political impartiality.
Comprehensive Witness Interviews
Hur’s team has interviewed many individuals, including long-time advisor Steve Ricchetti and former White House aides. The investigation also extends to Biden’s time in the Senate, with some documents dating back to his tenure there. This has necessitated navigating the Senate’s constitutional speech or debate protections.
Investigators have focused on establishing a chain of custody for the documents and understanding the circumstances of their transfer to Biden’s office and home. This thorough process has involved detailed questions about office operations and document handling practices.
The investigation concludes that Hur’s comprehensive report will provide a full account of the probe’s findings. The White House has not commented on whether Biden invoked executive privilege during his interview or if the timing was affected by recent events in Israel.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre did not disclose details about Biden’s responses during the interview. She stressed the President’s ability to handle multiple issues simultaneously, referencing his focus on the recent violence in Israel while participating in the investigation.
