Contrary to their previous claims, the Biden administration participated in the raid of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home, as per the group America First Legal. The organization acquired internal government documents through a Freedom of Information Act request, illuminating the administration's involvement.
Allegations of Unlawful Abuse of Power by Biden Officials
Reed D. Rubinstein, America First Legal senior counselor and director of oversight and investigations, accused Biden officials of abusing their power and lying to the American people. He argued that the government appears to have no limits on its power to harass, intimidate, and silence political opponents.
FBI Access to Trump Records Granted by Biden White House
America First Legal discovered that the FBI accessed Trump's records through a "special access request" from the Biden White House. This confirms the Fox News report from August, which suggested administration involvement.
John Laster Involved in Access Request Despite Claims
John Laster, the Archives' official responsible for access requests for Presidential records, was involved in the request, contradicting previous claims that the Archives were not part of the DOJ investigation.
America First Legal Questions Independence of OIG Referral
America First Legal raised doubts about the independence of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) referral to the FBI, suggesting that Mr. Laster's involvement contradicted the notion of an independent OIG.
Violation of Special Access Statute by Biden Administration
The group also argued that the special access statute was violated. It only allows access requests for an incumbent president when records are needed for the White House's current business. A criminal investigation does not fall under this category.
President Biden's Involvement Hinted in August Letter
An August letter from NARA acting head Debra Wall to Trump attorney Evan Corcoran hinted at President Biden's involvement in the matter, further implicating the administration in the Mar-a-Lago raid.
