During a contentious Judiciary Committee hearing, Attorney General Merrick Garland reiterated his commitment to keeping the federal investigation into Hunter Biden’s business dealings free from political influence. The probe is currently being led by Delaware U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss and is under both federal and congressional investigations.
While some have questioned why Garland has not elevated Weiss to special counsel status to ensure his independence, Garland maintained that Weiss has the full authority to carry out his investigation and make referrals to other districts if necessary. He also acknowledged that appointing Weiss as a special counsel is a complicated question that would have to go through him first.
Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa pressed Garland on whether improper payments from foreign governments to politically-exposed persons would constitute a national security concern. Garland responded that it would if it involved an agent of a foreign government paying someone to support that government in secret.
As the investigation into Hunter Biden’s business dealings continues, Garland’s commitment to non-interference will be closely watched.