In a closed-door testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, Department of Justice special counsel David Weiss, who is leading the criminal cases against Hunter Biden, asserted his authority as the decision-maker in the ongoing investigation. Addressing Republican concerns about potential political interference, Weiss emphasized that political considerations played no part in his charging decisions.

Weiss, serving as both the special counsel and the U.S. attorney for Delaware, made it clear that he had not faced any obstacles from other United States Attorneys, the Tax Division, or any other officials at the Department of Justice during the course of the investigation. Citing the principles of federal prosecution, he reassured lawmakers that his team consistently based their decisions on facts and the law.

Republican members of the committee have raised questions regarding Weiss's autonomy, given the appointment of Attorney General Merrick Garland by the Democratic president. However, Weiss firmly stated that he had full control over determining the charges to bring against Hunter Biden and was not influenced by any political considerations.

During the hearing, Weiss acknowledged that he was promptly granted special counsel status by Garland upon his request in August. This status enables Weiss to lodge criminal charges in the case outside of Delaware, expanding the scope of his authority.

Democrats on the committee dismissed the hearing as a partisan attempt to damage President Joe Biden politically. Representatives Dan Goldman of New York and Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania criticized their Republican colleagues for asking repetitive and misleading questions. Scanlon described the hearing as "a farce" and "an absolute waste of time."

Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, currently faces charges related to possessing a handgun while being a drug user and failure to pay federal income taxes. The 53-year-old has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

As the investigation into Hunter Biden continues, Weiss reiterated his commitment to conducting a fair and just inquiry based on the principles of federal prosecution. Further updates on the case are expected to follow.

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