Anthony Bernal, a former top aide to former President Joe Biden, has refused to testify before the House Oversight Committee regarding his knowledge of Biden’s mental decline and the use of an autopen, an automatic signature tool that allows aides to sign documents on his behalf. This refusal has prompted the committee to warn that it will subpoena Bernal if he does not comply.
Bernal, who serves as the first lady’s top aide, has become one of the most influential individuals in the White House, according to recent reports. His refusal to testify comes amid intense scrutiny over the White House’s management of these issues, and his potential appearance before the committee could further illuminate the controversy surrounding Biden’s cognitive state.
LaRosa explained that Bernal’s role was pivotal in the Biden team, as he spent more time with the Biden family than any other aide. Despite his importance, Bernal’s refusal to testify has sparked controversy, with some questioning whether his actions are motivated by loyalty to the Biden family rather than the public interest.
During the pandemic, Biden shifted focus from the campaign trail to lockdown, leading to changes in the White House’s management structure. Bernal and Annie Tomasini, who is expected to testify next month, found their way into Joe and Jill Biden’s pod, shifting the power dynamic of Biden’s so-called ‘Politiburo,’ the group of advisors who steered Biden’s political orbit. The authors of the book ‘Original Sin’ describe Bernal’s rise in the White House as a signal of the success of people whose allegiance was to the Biden family rather than the presidency.
The committee’s decision to subpoena Bernal has further intensified the scrutiny on the White House’s handling of these issues. Bernal’s potential testimony could provide crucial insights into the inner workings of the White House and the extent of the knowledge held by aides about Biden’s mental state. The outcome of this situation could have significant implications for the ongoing investigation and the perception of the White House’s transparency and accountability.
Additionally, the committee’s actions highlight the growing divide between the White House and the legislative branch, as the House Oversight Committee seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in the administration’s handling of these issues. The potential testimony of Bernal could further deepen this divide and influence the political landscape in the coming months.