Original Article

On Monday, the Justice Department informed House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan that it cannot disclose information about the special counsel investigation into President Biden’s handling of classified documents as it may negatively impact the investigation. Jordan and Rep. Mike Johnson had previously written a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding answers and questioning the alleged concealment of information by the DOJ.

Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte acknowledged receipt of the letter and explained the reason for noncompliance. The department has a policy of maintaining confidentiality of information related to open investigations to protect the administration of justice, legal rights, personal safety, and privacy of individuals involved.

Uriarte stated that during the pendency of an investigation, congressional inquiries can threaten the integrity of the department’s law enforcement and litigation functions. Disclosing information about ongoing investigations could risk jeopardizing those investigations and create the appearance of political influence on department decisions.

The department’s policies on disclosure aim for independence and accountability in sensitive matters and decision making based solely on facts and law. Uriarte also noted that special counsel investigations are subject to specific regulations and are not subject to day-to-day supervision by any department official. These regulations govern the department’s conduct and disclosures in all special counsel investigations.