House Speaker Kevin McCarthy suggested the possibility of an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Merrick Garland if IRS whistleblower claims regarding Justice Department interference in the Hunter Biden investigation are substantiated. McCarthy highlighted discrepancies between Garland's public statements and U.S. Attorney David Weiss's private assertions concerning the handling of the case. McCarthy emphasized the credibility of the IRS whistleblowers, describing them as "long-term workers" who witnessed what they perceived as preferential treatment toward Hunter Biden. He pointed to the timing of certain charges, suggesting a deliberate delay to avoid more serious prosecution. McCarthy expressed deep concern over the alleged discrepancies and stated that the situation "doesn't smell right." The House Ways and Means Committee recently released interview transcripts from two IRS whistleblowers alleging political influence in the DOJ, FBI, and IRS decisions related to the Hunter Biden probe. Supervisory Special Agent Gary Shapley Jr. testified that Weiss's attempts to bring charges against Hunter Biden in multiple districts were reportedly blocked by DOJ officials. Shapley also claimed Weiss's request for special counsel status was denied by Garland. Garland has vehemently denied these allegations. In a letter to the House Judiciary Committee, Weiss asserted his ultimate authority over the case and the decision-making process regarding charges. However, Shapley countered this claim, stating Weiss admitted to a lack of authority to charge in other districts and his subsequent request for special counsel status. This account was reportedly corroborated by other witnesses present at the meeting. McCarthy called for Weiss to provide answers to the House Judiciary Committee and indicated that if the whistleblower allegations are verified, it could form a significant basis for an impeachment inquiry into Garland for alleged weaponization of the DOJ. The White House dismissed McCarthy's statements as partisan maneuvering intended to divert attention from Republican economic policies. They emphasized President Biden's focus on economic progress and his commitment to prioritizing the middle class. Garland responded to the allegations by defending the integrity of the Justice Department and its employees, emphasizing the department's commitment to basing cases on facts and law. He praised the work of law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and DEA, and expressed pride in working with them.
