WASHINGTON — President Biden refuted claims on Wednesday that he engaged in business discussions, countering his son Hunter’s former business partner Devon Archer’s assertion that he participated in about 20 business meetings via speakerphone and attended events with his son’s foreign associates.
Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy queried Biden after a wind-power event in New Mexico, citing Archer’s testimony. “There’s this testimony now where one of your son’s former business associates is claiming that you were on speakerphone a lot with them, talking business,” Doocy said.
Biden dismissed the question, stating, “I never talked business with anybody. I knew you’d have a lousy question.”
Archer’s deposition before the House Oversight Committee drew attention to Biden’s involvement in his son’s business affairs, particularly interactions with foreign patrons.
Biden’s first public response came as House Republicans, led by Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), move closer to launching an impeachment inquiry, further connecting him to his son’s international business dealings.
In Archer’s deposition, it was revealed that Biden frequently communicated with his son’s partners from countries where he held influence, even attending dinners with foreign patrons.
However, Biden’s dismissal underscored his denial of being directly involved in business discussions, asserting that he had not conversed about business matters with anyone.
The focus on Archer’s testimony has intensified scrutiny on the Biden family’s business interactions and potential influence on foreign business dealings, particularly in light of Hunter Biden’s role in various business ventures.
The revelation of Biden’s communication patterns and associations has added fuel to the political debate, with House Democrats and Republicans interpreting Archer’s claims differently.
Archer’s statements reveal that Biden’s presence was enough to indicate the family’s “brand” and influence, even if direct business discussions were limited.
The situation also sheds light on Biden’s interactions with foreign dignitaries and patrons, raising questions about his influence and involvement in Hunter’s business ventures.
As the impeachment inquiry discussions continue, Biden’s handling of his son’s business relationships is coming under increased scrutiny, with allegations of potential conflicts of interest and influence-peddling.
The unfolding situation presents challenges for Biden as he navigates questions about his role in his son’s business affairs and seeks to maintain transparency and credibility in his administration.
Amidst the partisan debate, it remains to be seen how the ongoing discussions surrounding Biden’s connection to his son’s business dealings will impact his presidency and public perception.