The highly anticipated report from the special counsel, Robert Herr, regarding the handling of documents by White House staff, is expected to be released imminently. Attorney General Merrick Garland has pledged to make as much of the report public as possible, following the completion of a review for executive privilege by the White House. This morning, the White House notified the Department of Justice (DOJ) that the review had concluded and confirmed that President Biden has chosen not to assert any privilege over any part of the report, in line with his commitment to transparency.
While no charges are expected to arise from the special counsel's investigation, there are concerns within the White House that the report may contain embarrassing details about the storage of these documents, potentially including photographs. According to reports, there were requests from various staff members, ranging from junior staffers to senior officials and advisors, to view the draft report before its public release. However, these requests were rejected by the special counsel, who believed that including outside input could compromise the integrity and impartiality of the investigation.
There has been ongoing speculation about the potential impact of this case on President Biden's reelection campaign. Critics fear that it may draw comparisons to the legal challenges faced by former President Trump and create a narrative of wrongdoing. However, the White House remains confident that the report will not result in any charges against the current administration.
It is expected that President Biden may address the report's findings later today. During a previous statement, he promised to take questions from the press on Thursday, indicating a willingness to provide his perspective on the report's contents. As he heads to the Democratic retreat in Virginia this afternoon, there is a window of opportunity for the president to address the issue and ensure his viewpoint enters the news cycle alongside the release of the report.
The press secretary's briefing today appeared rushed, with limited time for questions. This has sparked speculation about whether the president intends to address the report's findings in a timely manner. As journalists eagerly await the report's release, anticipation is high for the president's response and the public's reaction to the special counsel's findings.
