Comer demands drastic action in FBI standoff over Biden bribery claims.

Daniel ChaitinMay 24, 2023

House Oversight Committee Chairman Calls for “Extreme Measures” to Obtain Alleged Biden Bribery Scheme Document

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) is calling for “extreme measures” to break a stalemate with the FBI over a document believed to contain allegations of a criminal “bribery” scheme involving President Joe Biden.

According to GOP investigators, the document describes an alleged influence peddling scheme involving Biden dating back to his time as vice president and a foreign national. However, the FBI has refused to deliver the sought-after record, prompting discussions among lawmakers about how to escalate the fight considering a subpoena deadline has come and gone.

Comer’s Plan of Action

Comer told Fox News that he has spoken to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) about possibly holding FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt of Congress. The chairman also said he has talked with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), a known champion for whistleblowers.

“We need to take extreme measures in trying to get this whistleblower to come forward publicly and say what exactly is in this document,” Comer said. The chairman added that House Republicans need to demand that GOP senators hold the bureau’s budget “hostage” until the FBI gets new leadership or delivers the record he seeks.

White House Response

Democrats have accused their GOP counterparts of ignoring alleged misconduct by former President Donald Trump while trying to dig up “dirt” on the Biden family. The White House has shot back at Republicans in Congress, with spokesperson Ian Sams tweeting, “House Republicans have shown no evidence of any policy decisions influenced by anything other than U.S. national interests. That’s because they can’t.”

McCarthy’s Conversation with Wray

McCarthy revealed over the weekend that he had a conversation with Wray about the FBI complying with Comer’s subpoena.

“I explained to the director that we will do everything in our power, and we have jurisdiction over the FBI, that we have the right to see this document,” McCarthy said during an appearance on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures”. “I believe after this call we will get this document.”

Comer, who says he also wants to know what the FBI did to investigate claims made against Biden, appeared less than optimistic on Monday.

“They don’t respect anyone in Congress,” Comer said. “They’ve been able to get away with this for a long time. The media continues to turn a blind eye. The Senate Republicans continue to fund the FBI. Why would you change your business model when you’re getting everything you want?”