New audio reveals Biden couldn’t recall telling writer about classified documents
President Joe Biden faced tough questions from special counsel Robert Hur’s co-counsel, Marc Krickbaum, during a 2023 interview regarding a handwritten memo on Afghanistan from the Obama administration. In a leaked audio file released by Axios, Biden repeatedly claimed not to remember key details, including telling his ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer, that he had found classified documents in his home.
Krickbaum pressed Biden on his statement to Zwonitzer about finding “all the classified stuff downstairs,” prompting confusion from the former president. Biden’s attorney, Bob Bauer, intervened to remind him not to speculate. Despite this, Biden struggled to recall the specifics of the conversation but acknowledged that he may have mentioned it.
The discussion then turned to the contents of the memo and whether Biden had discovered any documents in his home. Biden explained that he wanted to keep certain information confidential, particularly regarding his son, Beau, but denied actively searching for anything specific in his home. He expressed uncertainty about the whereabouts of various boxes but maintained that he was not deliberately compiling information.
The White House had previously released transcripts of the interviews, but the audio remained undisclosed until now, leading to speculation about Biden’s mental acuity. Hur’s investigation ultimately concluded that Biden had mishandled classified documents but should not face criminal charges.
In response to Hur’s characterization of him as a well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory, Biden defended himself by asserting his competence and experience as a former president. He emphasized his role in revitalizing the country and rejected Hur’s assessment.
As the controversy surrounding Biden’s handling of classified materials continues to unfold, it raises questions about transparency and accountability within the highest levels of government. The leaked audio sheds new light on the challenges Biden faces in recalling important details and underscores the importance of safeguarding sensitive information.
