During a recent hearing, Rep. Jerry Nadler questioned Robert Hur regarding the investigation into the retention of classified materials by President Biden and former President Trump. Hur confirmed that while evidence suggested Biden might have retained classified materials, there was not enough proof to charge him with a crime. Hur emphasized the binary nature of being charged with a crime - either one is charged or not.
Contrasting Biden's case, Hur highlighted that Trump faces multiple charges related to unlawful retention of classified documents, incitement of rebellion, and financial dishonesty. Biden promptly reported the possible classified documents to the FBI, whereas Trump's possession of such documents was discovered by the National Archives.
Hur's report indicated that Biden's voluntary disclosure of the documents played a role in the analysis of his intent. In contrast, the Department of Justice sought a warrant to search Mar-a-Lago due to concerns that Trump might conceal or destroy documents.
While Biden's responses were generally deemed credible, there was one instance where his response was considered not credible. However, there was no evidence of Biden lying or instructing his staff to lie. Hur acknowledged that causing someone to lie to the FBI constitutes obstruction of justice.
Trump's obstruction of the investigation included directing staff to move and hide documents, delete security footage, and conceal evidence. Hur refrained from characterizing the evidence against Trump but agreed that such actions could be considered obstruction.
In conclusion, Trump faces charges for willfully retaining classified documents, conspiring to conceal them, and lying to investigators. Biden, on the other hand, is not facing any charges as the extensive investigation did not find sufficient evidence to prove criminal wrongdoing.
