Biden Administration's Claims of Cleared Investigation Proven False as FBI Conducts Another Search
The FBI conducted a "planned search" on Wednesday at President Joe Biden's residence in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, despite the White House previously stating on January 12th, 2023 that the investigation into the potential mishandling of classified documents was complete. Biden's personal lawyer Bob Bauer confirmed the search took place and noted that no documents with classified markings were found. However, some materials and handwritten notes related to Biden's time as Vice President were taken for further review by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The search lasted for three and a half hours, from 8:30 a.m. to noon ET.
Bauer stated that the search was carried out with the full support and cooperation of the President and was a step in the DOJ's thorough and timely process. He noted that no advance public notice was given, in accordance with DOJ's standard procedures for operational security and integrity.
This marks the second search by the DOJ that Biden's lawyers have acknowledged, despite the White House's previous statement that the investigation was complete. The first was a nearly 13-hour search of Biden's Wilmington, Delaware home in January, which found additional classified documents after his lawyers searched the home themselves in December and found some classified materials.
Biden has claimed to be fully cooperating with the Justice Department authorities, however, reporters have raised concerns about the White House's transparency in the matter and the discrepancy between their previous statement that the investigation was complete and the recent search of the President's home. Classified documents have also been taken from former President Donald Trump's home and former Vice President Mike Pence's home, with both individuals denying any wrongdoing. Biden has largely declined to comment on the classified documents found at his home and office.