The House of Representatives recently voted against a Republican resolution that sought to fine Attorney General Merrick Garland $10,000 per day until he handed over the audio recording of President Joe Biden's interview in a classified documents case. The resolution, known as inherent contempt, was defeated by a vote of 204-210, with four Republicans joining all Democrats in opposing the measure.
The dispute over the tape of Biden's interview with special counsel Robert Hur is currently the subject of a legal battle, making it unclear how the proposed fine would have been enforced even if the resolution had passed. House Republican leaders expressed surprise at the failed vote but affirmed their commitment to using other tools to obtain the recording.
Attorney General Garland, who was unavailable for comment as he was leading a cross-border crime forum, has defended the Justice Department's handling of the situation. Garland has provided a transcript of Biden's interview but has refrained from releasing the audio, citing concerns about jeopardizing future sensitive investigations and witness cooperation.
House Republicans have accused Biden of suppressing the recording for political reasons, while Democrats have criticized the GOP's efforts as a political stunt. The ongoing congressional inquiry stems from Hur's report, which raised questions about Biden's handling of classified information but did not recommend criminal charges.
Despite the failed resolution, House Republicans have vowed to continue their pursuit of the audio recording through legal means. The contentious issue has underscored the deep political divisions in Congress and the broader debate over transparency and accountability in government.
