Former US Special Counsel Robert Hur appeared before Congress to defend his evaluation of President Joe Biden’s memory, in relation to an investigation into Biden’s handling of classified documents. Hur emphasized the fairness and accuracy of his assessment, which concluded that Biden’s memory lapses were significant in determining whether the president had knowingly retained classified information. Despite the findings, Biden faced no criminal charges from the investigation, which also drew attention to the contrasting perceptions between Biden and former President Donald Trump’s conduct in similar circumstances.

The report has stirred criticism and defense across political lines; some Republican lawmakers accused Hur of being lenient towards Biden, whereas Democrats saw the report as vindication, highlighting Biden’s cooperation throughout the investigation. Hur’s evaluation has sparked debate among Congress members, especially from Democrats questioning the necessity and motives behind the assessment. Both President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have dismissed the claims of Biden’s poor memory as politically motivated. Hur’s tenure as a special counsel concluded on Monday, marking the end of his appointment.