Transcript Contradicts President Biden's Account of Exchange with Investigator over Son's Death

President Joe Biden's testimony regarding his son's death has come under scrutiny following a transcript review of his interview with special counsel Robert Hur, who investigated his handling of classified information. The transcript reveals contradictions in Biden's characterization of an exchange about the death of his son, Beau Biden, from brain cancer.

Biden's Response

President Biden expressed visible frustration in a response to the special counsel's report, stating, "There's even a reference that I don't remember when my son died" and "How in the hell dare he raise that?" He further expressed his belief that his son's death was not the interviewer's business.

Contradiction in Biden's Account

However, a review of the transcript by ABC News showed that it was Biden, not Hur, who initially mentioned his son's death. The transcript also indicated that the president had difficulty recalling the exact year of Beau Biden's passing, despite correctly remembering the date. The interview revealed moments where Biden appeared confused about the timing of his son's death, prompting others to remind him of the correct year.

Special Counsel's Description

The special counsel, Hur, characterized Biden in his 388-page report as a "sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." While declining to pursue criminal charges against the president, Hur's portrayal of Biden's recall has raised criticism and scrutiny.

Transcript Details

The Justice Department provided the transcript, comprising approximately 250 pages, to lawmakers in the House Judiciary and Oversight Committees in response to their subpoena. The document shed new light on the five hours Biden spent voluntarily with investigators over two days in October, offering detailed descriptions of events from years past, including policy debates and foreign travel.

Biden's Testimony

The extensive interview portrayed Biden as both defensive and engaging, reflecting his public persona. At various points during the interview, Biden displayed moments of jest and humor, while also addressing the seriousness of the investigation with detailed responses and explanations.

President's Assertions

Throughout the interview, Biden reiterated that he had not intentionally retained classified material and emphasized that he would have returned such documents if found. He acknowledged keeping personal notes from his tenure as vice president, citing them as his property based on precedent set by previous administrations. Additionally, Biden emphasized his reliance on staff to handle the packing and movement of his belongings and papers upon leaving the White House.

Scrutiny of Investigation

Lawmakers from both parties are anticipated to examine Hur's handling of the investigation during a scheduled hearing. Democrats and allies of the president have criticized Hur's reference to Biden's age and memory as irrelevant, while Republicans are expected to question the decision to absolve Biden of criminal conduct.

Upcoming Testimony

Hur is set to testify before the House Oversight Committee, with the hearing scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. ET. The testimony is anticipated to prompt further debate and examination of the investigation's findings and implications.