The House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer (R-KY), has subpoenaed three Biden aides to investigate claims that President Biden is not independently performing his presidential duties. The aides, Ashley Williams, Annie Tomasini, and Anthony Bernal, are suspected of creating a “protective bubble” around Biden, limiting his independence.
These subpoenas follow Biden’s poor debate performance in June and reports of a neurologist specializing in Parkinson’s disease visiting the White House. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre faced intense questioning about the president’s health, denying Biden is being treated for Parkinson’s and stating he is fit for duty based on his February physical. Jean-Pierre was adamant that Biden had only seen the neurologist for his regular physical exams, and no evidence of Parkinson’s was found.
Rep. Comer stated the committee aims to uncover “the extent to which President Biden is personally carrying out the duties of his office and whether he is capable of doing so.” This investigation comes amidst increasing pressure from within the Democratic Party for Biden to step aside, with figures like George Clooney calling for new leadership.
Additionally, the press corps has criticized the administration for its handling of information regarding Biden’s health. Reporters pointed out inconsistencies in the explanations provided by Jean-Pierre, especially concerning Biden’s medical exams before and after his debate performance. Jean-Pierre’s evolving answers have fueled further doubts about transparency in the White House.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has criticized the current administration’s handling of the situation, advocating for stricter oversight and accountability. He emphasized the need to ensure that the president is capable of leading the nation.
The committee’s investigation will determine how much of Biden’s responsibilities are managed by his aides and whether he can effectively carry out his duties. The findings will likely influence the ongoing debate about Biden’s ability to continue as president and his fitness for re-election.