White House Defends Biden's Executive Privilege Claim in Hur Investigation

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has defended President Biden's assertion of executive privilege over recordings of his interviews with Special Counsel Robert Hur, a decision made at the request of Attorney General Merrick Garland.

The White House maintains its stance on President Biden's executive privilege claim, which shields the release of recordings from his interviews with Special Counsel Robert Hur investigating Biden's handling of classified documents.

During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre explained that Attorney General Garland suggested protecting law enforcement files like those in question, leading to Biden's decision. She referred inquiries to the White House counsel's office for further clarification.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) notified House Republicans that the executive branch would not comply with subpoenas for materials related to Hur's investigation. Associate Attorney General Carlos Uriarte cited a longstanding executive position that individuals asserting executive privilege cannot face criminal prosecution for contempt of Congress.

Hur's investigation concluded without criminal charges against Biden, citing his age and memory issues. The findings sparked backlash, with former President Trump criticizing the disparity in charges compared to other cases.

Biden met with Hur for approximately five hours, facing questions about his handling of classified documents. Republicans expressed concern that the invocation of executive privilege was an attempt to conceal potentially damaging testimony.

However, Jean-Pierre emphasized that transcripts of Biden's interview have been publicly released. She maintained that the president has nothing to hide, despite Republican allegations that the recordings could confirm the findings of Hur's report and cause public unrest.

When asked why the audio and video needed protection despite the transcript's release, Jean-Pierre deferred to the attorney general and the president.

The White House's assertion of executive privilege has drawn criticism from Republicans, who argue that it obstructs proper oversight and transparency. The issue is expected to continue generating debate as the investigation into Biden's handling of classified documents remains ongoing.

Fox News Digital contributors Emma Colton, David Spunt, and Brooke Singman contributed to this report.