In a recent development in Washington, D.C., Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, has been accused of igniting a “constitutional crisis” by defying a subpoena related to a corruption-focused impeachment inquiry against his father. This allegation was made by House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO), a key figure in the impeachment probe.
During an interview with Fox News anchor Maria Bartiromo on “Sunday Morning Futures,” Smith expressed his frustration with Hunter Biden’s actions. He highlighted the younger Biden’s decision to hold a press event outside the Capitol instead of attending a scheduled deposition as part of the congressional subpoena. Smith criticized this act as a blatant defiance of legal procedures, suggesting that such behavior from any other American would likely result in prosecution.
Smith’s comments come in the wake of IRS whistleblower testimony that has already raised concerns about a “two-tiered justice system.” This testimony pertains to the Department of Justice’s handling of its criminal investigation into Hunter Biden.
Hunter Biden’s appearance in Washington, D.C., and his subsequent refusal to comply with the subpoena demanding his participation in a deposition, has led impeachment investigators to consider initiating contempt of Congress proceedings against him. In his remarks at the press event, Hunter Biden insisted on being granted a public hearing instead of a private interview, stating his intention to ensure that the committee’s investigations do not proceed based on distortions and lies.
The House of Representatives, led by the GOP, responded to this situation by voting to formally authorize the impeachment inquiry. This move, supported unanimously by Republican members, underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the intent to continue the investigation.
Chairman Smith emphasized the importance of the investigation, citing evidence brought forward by himself and other chairmen, as well as information from IRS whistleblowers. He expressed determination to continue the inquiry despite what he described as the White House’s efforts to block and stonewall subpoenas, witness testimonies, and document requests.
This development marks a significant escalation in the impeachment inquiry against President Biden and highlights the ongoing political tensions in Washington. The situation underscores the complexities of legal and ethical conduct in the political arena, especially concerning high-profile individuals and their families.