The ‘indispensable’ Biden aide ditching House Oversight probe on his mental decline
The House Oversight Committee has announced its intention to subpoena Anthony Bernal, a top aide to the Biden family, after he refused to testify in their investigation into former President Biden’s mental acuity and his use of an automatic signature tool. The committee alleges that Bernal, who is a longtime aide to Jill Biden, is defying Congress and running scared by refusing to testify.
Bernal, who was expected to face tough questions about what he knew regarding Biden’s mental decline, was described as one of the most influential people in the White House. Democratic strategist Michael LaRosa emphasized Bernal’s close relationship with the Bidens, stating that Bernal was indispensable in protecting the family’s interests.
In the book “Original Sin,” Bernal was portrayed as wielding loyalty as a weapon to weed out defectors within Biden’s inner circle. Along with Annie Tomasini, another aide expected to testify, Bernal shifted the power dynamic by aligning themselves closely with the Bidens. Their rise in the Biden White House signaled a shift towards loyalty to the family rather than the presidency.
Despite allegations of a bunker mentality and a toxic management style, some have defended Bernal as a strong leader with high standards. Politico reported in 2021 that his management style could be viewed as toxic, leading to crying staffers. LaRosa acknowledged that Bernal was challenging to work with but also highlighted his big heart.
Bernal’s upcoming appearance before the committee follows testimony from former Biden aide Neera Tanden, who stated she was authorized to direct autopen signatures but was unaware of who provided final clearance. Tanden denied discussing Biden’s health or fitness to serve as president during her time as a top aide.
The committee’s efforts to uncover the truth about Biden’s mental acuity and the use of autopen signatures continue to unfold. As the investigation progresses, more details may come to light about the inner workings of the Biden White House and the role of key aides like Anthony Bernal.
