House Republicans have taken legal action by filing a lawsuit in Washington's federal court to compel two Justice Department lawyers to testify about the criminal investigation of Hunter Biden. This move is part of the chamber's impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.
The lawsuit alleges that the Justice Department attorneys have failed to comply with subpoenas issued by the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee. The Committee is seeking answers regarding claims that the Justice Department mishandled and delayed the investigation into Hunter Biden.
The Justice Department has stated that it has already made significant efforts to address concerns about the probe, including testimony from special counsel David Weiss, who oversees the Hunter Biden prosecutions. Weiss testified that there was no interference from President Biden or the White House in the investigation.
Hunter Biden, who faces gun and tax charges, recently pleaded not guilty. The tax charges relate to a four-year scheme in which he allegedly avoided paying $1.4 million in taxes, using the money for a lavish lifestyle that included drugs and alcohol.
Despite the impeachment inquiry nearing its conclusion, House Republicans are pushing for further investigation. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee, instead of pursuing impeachment, is considering potential criminal referrals of the Biden family to the Justice Department.
The Justice Department has expressed concerns about forcing rank-and-file attorneys to testify, citing risks to ongoing investigations and court proceedings. Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and fairness of the probe.
While Hunter Biden provided a lengthy deposition to the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, no evidence of impeachable offenses was found. Chairman James Comer is now looking into symbolic criminal referrals rather than drafting articles of impeachment against President Biden.
Overall, the legal battle over testimony and the ongoing investigation into Hunter Biden's activities continue to be contentious issues within the political landscape.
