James Biden Testifies in Impeachment Probe
James Biden Testifies
U.S. President Joe Biden’s brother James Biden arrived on Capitol Hill on Wednesday to testify behind closed doors in a Republican-led impeachment inquiry. A top Democrat said the effort is based on Russian disinformation and should be dropped.
Impeachment Inquiry Background
Republicans have been investigating whether Biden improperly benefited from family members’ foreign business ventures. The inquiry has faced new headwinds as prosecutors charged a former FBI informant with lying about the Bidens’ alleged business dealings in Ukraine.
Democrat’s Response
U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, expressed that the impeachment investigation is based on Russian disinformation and propaganda and should be dropped.
Republicans’ Stance
Republicans leading the inquiry have downplayed the role that the informant’s claims have played and vowed to continue the investigation.
Family Testimonies
James Biden is the first member of the Biden family to testify in the investigation. Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden is due to speak to investigators next week.
Allegations Against the Bidens
House Republicans allege that the president and his family, including James, improperly profited from policy decisions Biden participated in as vice president in President Barack Obama’s administration in 2009-17.
Witness Testimonies
Multiple witnesses have said in their interviews with lawmakers that Biden was not involved with his family’s business activities. The White House has denied wrongdoing and dismissed the inquiry as a partisan attack.
James Biden’s Involvement
James Biden, 74, has worked with Hunter Biden on past business ventures. Hunter, who has worked as an artist, lawyer, and investor, faces criminal tax and firearms charges.
Trump’s Support
Former President Donald Trump, the leading Republican contender to challenge Biden in the November election, has cheered on the investigation. Hard-right Republicans have clamored for the impeachment of Biden and several of his cabinet officials since shortly after his election.
Impeachment of Mayorkas
House Republicans last week narrowly voted to impeach Alejandro Mayorkas, Biden’s top border official, for failing to curb record crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. The Democratic-majority Senate will take up the Mayorkas case next week, though it almost certainly will vote to acquit him.
