In a pivotal moment in Washington, President Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, faces potential contempt of Congress charges if he fails to attend a scheduled private interview with congressional leaders. Amidst escalating tensions, the outcome of his decision remains uncertain.
Hunter Biden is currently in the nation’s capital, yet it’s unclear whether he will participate in the deposition demanded by Republican committee leaders. Last week, the chairmen of the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees, James Comer (R-Ky.) and Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), issued a stark warning to the younger Biden: comply with the deposition or face contempt charges.
The dispute intensified as Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, and the committee leaders engaged in a heated exchange of letters. Hunter’s legal team has been advocating for a public hearing, countering the committee’s preference for a private session.
Last month, Lowell stated that Hunter Biden was prepared to testify publicly, challenging the closed-door interview format. However, the GOP chairmen insisted that Hunter must first attend a private deposition. Subsequently, Lowell penned a letter to Comer, declaring Hunter Biden’s willingness to testify only in a public setting.
Lowell’s letter emphasized the desire for transparency, accusing the committee of manipulating facts in closed sessions. “Mr. Biden has agreed to a hearing on December 13, 2023, or another date this month, to address pertinent and relevant questions. This decision stems from the committee’s history of distorting facts in private sessions. We’re committed to ensuring transparency and truth,” Lowell wrote.
In response, Comer and Jordan reassured that they would release the full transcript of the closed-door deposition, should it take place. They emphasized in their correspondence that Hunter Biden had no choice but to comply with the issued subpoenas. “The subpoenas obligate Mr. Biden to attend the deposition on December 13, 2023. Failure to comply will lead to contempt of Congress proceedings,” they stated.
This standoff marks a significant chapter in the ongoing investigation, with the next steps being closely watched by both political and public observers.