Dr. O’Connor’s Testimony Sparks Controversy in Biden Health Investigation

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, former President Joe Biden’s White House physician, invoked the Fifth Amendment during a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday.

This testimony, which was part of the GOP-led investigation into Biden’s health and age, has added fuel to the ongoing controversy. The Biden health investigation is becoming a key issue as concerns about Biden’s physical and mental fitness for office continue to intensify.

Dr. O’Connor’s Decision to Remain Silent

During the deposition, O’Connor refused to answer questions, citing doctor-patient privilege and his constitutional right under the Fifth Amendment. His legal team, which includes attorneys David Schertler and Mark MacDougall, stated that the committee’s line of questioning left their client no choice but to assert his right to remain silent.

They also emphasized that this decision was not an admission of guilt. However, Republican lawmakers, including House Oversight Chairman James Comer, have criticized the move as “unprecedented.” Comer suggested that O’Connor’s refusal to testify is a sign of a potential cover-up within the White House regarding Biden’s health.

The Growing Debate in the Biden Health Investigation

The investigation into Biden’s health was sparked by growing concerns about his ability to serve as President at 81 years old. Following reports about his physical and mental condition, the committee has scrutinized Biden’s public appearances and decisions. After Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, questions about his mental clarity and his capacity to lead the country became central to the investigation.

The controversy escalated after a memo from Dr. O’Connor, written last year, described Biden as a “healthy, active, robust” individual. This assessment has come under fire from Republicans, who argue that it misrepresents the President’s health. Rep. Comer, who is leading the Biden health investigation, has questioned whether O’Connor and the White House are hiding the true state of Biden’s health. He also claimed that O’Connor’s refusal to testify further supports suspicions of a cover-up.

Democrats, on the other hand, have defended Dr. O’Connor’s actions, noting that his refusal to testify was a legal move in light of ongoing investigations by the Department of Justice. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Texas Democrat, pointed out that O’Connor’s decision was simply following legal advice to protect himself from potential criminal liability. She also criticized the Oversight Committee for focusing on past events rather than addressing current issues facing the country.

What’s Next for the Biden Health Investigation?

As the Biden health investigation progresses, more witnesses are expected to testify. This ongoing probe could have significant implications for the 2024 election cycle, with the outcome potentially shaping public perceptions of Biden’s ability to serve another term. For now, the country remains divided over the President’s health, with questions about his fitness for office continuing to dominate political discourse.

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