Ocean County Leader

Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) issued a statement on July 11, 2024, following his vote to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in inherent contempt of Congress.

"Attorney General Garland’s continued refusal to hand over the audio tapes of Special Counsel Hur’s interview with President Biden is nothing less than a complete coverup," Smith stated. "In his final report, Special Counsel Hur stated that it would be difficult to convict President Biden of a serious felony because he is an ‘elderly man with a poor memory.’ Congress must have access to the unedited, unaltered evidence to know what led Hur to this conclusion—and to confirm that the released transcript matches the recording."

Smith further elaborated on his decision: "Because of Garland’s ongoing defiance of the law, I voted today to hold him in inherent contempt of Congress—which includes a significant $10,000 per day fine—until he complies with his congressional subpoena by turning over the audio recordings."

He also referenced prior actions taken against Garland: "Last month, with my strong support and vote, the House held the Attorney General in contempt for his efforts to prevent Congress from fulfilling its constitutional duty to conduct rigorous oversight over the Executive Branch. The American people—who are sick and tired of the total lack of transparency from President Biden and his Administration—deserve answers."

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