House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer has issued a subpoena to Annie Tomasini, a former White House deputy chief of staff to President Joe Biden, for testimony in an ongoing investigation into the former president’s use of the autopen and concerns over his mental fitness during his time in office. The subpoena follows previous efforts to secure information from other aides, including Biden’s former White House physician Kevin O’Connor, who refused to cooperate citing his 5, 5th Amendment rights and doctor-patient confidentiality. The committee is also scheduled to interview Anthony Bernal, a top aide to former First Lady Jill Biden, who was also subpoenaed.
Comer’s probe into the autopen issue, which involves allegations that President Biden may have used the device to sign official documents without proper verification, has drawn significant political attention. The investigation focuses on whether the use of the autopen raises questions about the president’s mental fitness and the legitimacy of his official actions. Tomasini’s testimony is expected to provide insights into the White House’s decision-making process and the extent of any potential misconduct.
Biden’s former White House physician, Kevin O’Connor, has not appeared before the committee due to his claims of constitutional protection. While O’Connor’s legal team has argued that he cannot be compelled to testify without a court order, the committee remains determined to pursue its investigation. The ongoing legal battles surrounding the subpoenas highlight the contentious nature of the probe, which has become a major political issue.
The scheduled interview with Anthony Bernal, a top aide to former First Lady Jill Biden, adds another dimension to the investigation. While Bernal’s role in the administration is less direct, his testimony could provide additional context on the White House’s handling of the autopen allegations and any potential involvement of senior officials. These hearings are part of a broader effort to assess the validity of the claims and their implications for the former president’s legacy.