President Joe Biden’s son Hunter told congressional Republicans that he would testify as requested, but added a caveat. The demand came even as Biden has had a newsworthy week, with a silent appearance before Congress and pleading not guilty to federal tax charges.
Hunter Biden’s attorney Abbe Lowell sent a letter to Congress, stating that if members “issue a new proper subpoena, now that there is a duly authorized impeachment inquiry,” his client would “comply.”
“We will accept such a subpoena on Mr. Biden’s behalf,” read the letter.
The action came after both the House Judiciary and House Oversight committees voted to hold him in contempt earlier this week, with the ultimate decision falling to the full House of Representatives. Should the contempt charges be enforced, Hunter Biden would face at least 30 days in jail.
The lengthy letter accused Republicans of falsely claiming that Hunter Biden sought “special treatment.” The attorney argued that his client did no such thing and did not show “contemptuous behavior.”
Despite the conditions laid down by the president’s son, it appears likely that there will still be a confrontation with congressional Republicans. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) wrote on social media that the House “will vote to hold” him in contempt of Congress “for repeatedly defying subpoenas.”
“Enough of his stunts. He doesn’t get to play by a different set of rules. He’s not above the law,” he said.
🚨🚨 Floor Vote Announcement: Next week the House will vote to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress for repeatedly defying subpoenas.
Enough of his stunts. He doesn't get to play by a different set of rules. He's not above the law.
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) January 12, 2024
Hunter Biden also came to Capitol Hill Wednesday. He has so far not complied with the subpoena but also made a separate appearance there recently. In December, he defied the subpoena, appearing for a press event near the steps of Congress.
On Thursday, he arrived during discussions regarding whether or not to hold him in contempt. He did not speak while in the chamber but listened to the discussion regarding the consequences for his behavior.
He also pleaded not guilty to a number of federal tax charges this week after the federal government accused him of not paying about $1 million in taxes.
