CBS Anchor Confronts Biden’s Attorney

President Joe Biden’s personal attorney, Bob Bauer, launched a vigorous critique of special counsel Robert Hur’s report on Sunday, vehemently challenging its accuracy. Notably, Bauer, whose wife is senior Biden adviser Anita Dunn, criticized the report for characterizing Biden as an “elderly man with a poor memory.” Critics argue that Hur’s report contains extraneous details, such as Biden’s recollection lapses regarding his son Beau’s death and his tenure as vice president.

Appearing on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” Bauer denounced Hur’s report as a “shoddy work product,” alleging “factual misstatements” and “pejorative comments” that he contends are at odds with Department of Justice (DOJ) policies and norms. However, Bauer’s strong stance faced challenges during an interview with host Margaret Brennan.

Initially asked about the president’s recall abilities during interviews with Hur, Bauer avoided a direct answer, asserting that Biden provided his “best recollection” in response to the questions. When Brennan inquired about the existence of transcripts from Biden’s interviews, Bauer confirmed their presence. Yet, his narrative unraveled when Brennan asked the crucial question of whether he supported releasing these transcripts.

Bauer’s response emphasized that the decision rested with the government due to the classified nature of the document, deflecting the issue. Brennan pressed further, asking if he would recommend their release if they aligned with his recollection. Bauer evaded, citing a ongoing process and deferring to those handling the matter.

Critics argue that if defenders believe details about Biden’s memory were unfairly presented, demanding the release of redacted transcripts seems logical. While acknowledging classified information within the interviews, skeptics contend that redactions could address these concerns. They argue that Bauer’s appeal to classification deflects from the core issue—whether the transcripts confirm or contradict Hur’s report.

Former U.S. Attorney Chuck Rosenberg emphasized the importance of detailing Biden’s memory lapses in Hur’s report, asserting that explaining why Biden isn’t facing prosecution necessitates providing a comprehensive rationale. Despite Bauer’s discontent with the report’s focus on memory details, he doesn’t dispute its accuracy. White House spokesman Ian Sams indicated on Friday that officials might consider seeking the release of a redacted version of the Biden transcripts.