Special Counsel Hur testified before the committee, confirming that during his 15-month investigation into the president's handling of classified documents, there was no interference or obstruction from Attorney General Garland or any other member of the Department of Justice. He stated that he had full access to materials, witnesses, and resources needed for the investigation.
The final report, submitted to Attorney General Garland on February 5th, 2024, was released publicly on February 8th, 2024, without any redactions or modifications to the substantive findings. Hur emphasized that the Attorney General did not issue any statements attempting to describe the report's contents, maintaining a transparent approach.
Comparing this release to the handling of the Mueller report years ago, Hur acknowledged the stark differences. He highlighted that Attorney General Garland's conduct was ethical and appropriate, ensuring an independent and thorough investigation without any attempts to mischaracterize the findings.
Reflecting on the past, Hur noted the delays and redactions in the release of the Mueller report under former Attorney General Barr's leadership, contrasting it with the transparent and timely manner in which Attorney General Garland handled his report.
In conclusion, Hur affirmed that Attorney General Garland's approach allowed for a fair and unbiased investigation, free from interference. The committee commended the Attorney General's adherence to ethical standards and commitment to transparency throughout the process.
