House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer expressed disappointment after Anthony Bernal, former Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the First Lady, declined to testify in an investigation concerning President Joe Biden's cognitive abilities. Bernal's decision came after the White House waived executive privilege.
Chairman Comer stated, "Now that the White House has waived executive privilege, it’s abundantly clear that Anthony Bernal – Jill Biden’s so-called ‘work husband’ – never intended to be transparent about Joe Biden’s cognitive decline and the ensuing cover-up. With no privilege left to hide behind, Mr. Bernal is now running scared, desperate to bury the truth. The American people deserve answers and accountability, and the Oversight Committee will not tolerate this obstruction. I will promptly issue a subpoena to compel Anthony Bernal’s testimony before the Committee."
Comer also mentioned Neera Tanden's testimony as part of the investigation. Tanden, former Staff Secretary who managed the Biden autopen, testified about her limited interaction with President Biden despite her significant authority. She noted that she sent decision memos for autopen signatures to members of Biden's inner circle but had no insight into what happened between sending and receiving approvals.
Comer commented on Tanden's testimony: "Her testimony raises serious questions about who was really calling the shots in the Biden White House amid the President’s obvious decline. We will continue to pursue the truth for the American people."
Bernal had previously agreed to appear for a transcribed interview on June 26, 2025. However, after being informed by White House Counsel that executive privilege was waived regarding this investigation, his legal team notified the committee of his decision not to appear.
In previous sessions of Congress, Chairman Comer had subpoenaed three key White House aides including Bernal over concerns they were involved in covering up President Biden's cognitive decline. The administration resisted these subpoenas by not making aides available for interviews or depositions.
