In a press briefing, US Attorney General Merrick Garland addressed concerns over perceived stonewalling of information requests regarding Hunter Biden, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Justice Department. Garland acknowledged the allegations questioning the department’s consistency in handling similar cases, but vehemently denied any biased treatment. He stated that these accusations undermine the fundamental institution of American democracy and the safety of its people. Garland emphasized that decisions are based on facts and the law, and highlighted the risk-taking efforts of law enforcement agencies in protecting and securing the nation.
Garland’s comments came in response to a reporter’s question regarding the House Oversight Committee Republicans’ threat to hold FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt for not releasing an FBI document. The document supposedly contained an informant’s claim that Joe and Hunter Biden received substantial sums of money for assisting a Ukrainian oligarch with legal issues. Eventually, Wray allowed committee members to view the document in a secure setting on Capitol Hill.
Under Garland’s leadership, the Justice Department has faced criticism from conservatives who argue for a “two-tiered” justice system, citing former President Donald Trump’s indictment on multiple counts and Hunter Biden’s comparatively lenient plea deal. These Republicans have vowed to continue investigating Hunter Biden despite his plea deal and assert that the DOJ cannot withhold information under the pretext of an ongoing investigation after concluding its inquiry into Biden.
Recent interview transcripts with an IRS whistleblower, Gary Shapley, were released by House Ways and Means Committee Republicans. Shapley alleged that Garland obstructed an investigation into Hunter Biden by Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss, adding to the criticism faced by the Justice Department.
Title: AG Merrick Garland Defends Justice Department’s Impartiality Amid Accusations, Pledges to Uphold Integrity