Attorney General Merrick Garland testifies before Congress since Justice Department prosecutors brought federal charges against President Biden’s son, Hunter.
AILSA CHANG, HOST:
Attorney General Merrick Garland appeared before the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee today to testify. This marked Garland’s first appearance since federal charges were brought against former President Trump and President Biden’s son, Hunter. NPR’s justice correspondent, Ryan Lucas, provides an insightful update.
RYAN LUCAS, BYLINE: Hey there.
CHANG: Okay, so this hearing would typically cover routine matters related to the department’s work. However, given the indictments against Trump and Hunter Biden, this is far from routine, right?
LUCAS: That’s correct. The Justice Department is facing an unprecedented situation with the two federal indictments you mentioned. These include the charges against Trump, the recent indictment against Hunter Biden, and the upcoming 2024 presidential campaign. Garland is fully aware of the politically charged atmosphere surrounding these investigations. At the beginning of the hearing, he emphasized the independence of both himself and the department.
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MERRICK GARLAND: I am not the president’s lawyer. I will add, I am not Congress’ prosecutor. The Justice Department works for the American people.
LUCAS: Today, Garland’s statement appeared more forceful compared to previous instances, indicating his recognition of the significance of this moment.
CHANG: Interesting. How did Republicans react?
LUCAS: Republicans have consistently accused Garland of weaponizing the Justice Department, targeting Trump and the January 6 rioters while being lenient towards Hunter Biden. These allegations were once again brought up during the hearing. Republicans focused on the department’s handling of the Hunter Biden investigation, currently led by U.S. Attorney David Weiss. Weiss was appointed during the Trump administration and remained in his position under Garland. The investigation has faced criticism from Republicans for alleged delays. However, Garland reiterated multiple times that he did not interfere in Weiss’ inquiry and that Weiss has full authority to pursue the case as he sees fit.
CHANG: I recall Garland recently appointing Weiss as special counsel. Can you elaborate on that?
LUCAS: Yes, that’s correct. The appointment took place last month. As part of this appointment, Weiss will eventually produce a report on the investigation and could testify before Congress. Although the investigation has been ongoing since 2019, Hunter Biden was indicted last week on three federal felony gun charges, with potential for additional charges.
CHANG: I see. With the 2024 election approaching, and the Republican frontrunner, Donald Trump, facing two federal indictments, did this larger political context influence today’s questioning of Garland?
LUCAS: Garland has made efforts to detach the department from politics and external influence since assuming the role of attorney general. Many legal observers appreciate his work in reestablishing these norms. Nevertheless, it is impossible to shield the Justice Department from the political climate in Washington and on Capitol Hill. As next year’s election approaches, former President Trump, the Republican frontrunner, confronts two federal indictments. Additionally, House Republicans have initiated an impeachment inquiry against President Biden, with a central focus on Hunter’s personal and legal issues, including the special counsel’s investigation. Today’s hearing serves as an opportunity for lawmakers to advance their political narratives rather than simply overseeing the department.
CHANG: Thank you, Ryan.
LUCAS: My pleasure.
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