In a press briefing on Thursday evening, President Joe Biden strongly rebuffed the findings of an investigation that accused him of mishandling top-secret files and raised questions about his memory. The inquiry, led by Department of Justice Special Counsel Robert Hur, concluded that Biden “wilfully retained and disclosed” classified files but opted not to press charges.
President Biden vehemently defended himself, asserting, “My memory is fine.” He particularly criticized the claim that he struggled to recall key life events, such as the death of his son, Beau Biden. The 345-page report, released earlier in the day, highlighted “significant limitations” in the president’s memory.
During the emotionally charged news conference, President Biden lashed out at the passages questioning his recollection, stating, “Frankly, when I was asked the question I thought to myself, was none of their damn business.” He emphasized that his son’s passing was a private matter, and he did not appreciate it being scrutinized.
The investigation found that Biden had improperly retained classified documents related to military and foreign policy, and had shared sensitive material with a ghostwriter for his memoir. Biden denied the latter accusation, calling it false from the podium.
Despite the critical findings, the special counsel indicated that convicting the president would be challenging, citing Biden’s potential portrayal as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory during a trial.
Responding to questions about age and mental acuity, President Biden vehemently asserted his competence, stating, “I am well-meaning, and am elderly. I know what the hell I’m doing. I put this country back on its feet.”
He deflected responsibility for having classified documents in his possession, attributing it to his staff. Biden claimed ignorance about the placement of sensitive memos in his garage, next to a dog bed.
The atmosphere at the White House’s Diplomatic Reception Room was described as tense, with President Biden pushing back against concerns about his age and mental sharpness. His legal team criticized the report’s language about his memory lapses, characterizing it as prejudicial.
The investigation arose after top-secret files were discovered at Biden’s residences in Delaware. In a parallel development, former President Donald Trump faces charges of mishandling classified documents, with a trial scheduled for May.
President Biden’s defiant response comes amid scrutiny over his age, as opinion polls indicate concerns among US voters. Despite the challenges, he remains resolute in his presidential qualifications, stating, “I don’t need his recommendation.”
