
A doctor's silence raises questions. Former White House physician Kevin O'Connor invoked the Fifth Amendment when pressed on President Biden's cognitive health, fueling a House inquiry and sparking debate about transparency and political motives.
O'Connor Cites Constitutional Rights in House Probe
Dr. Kevin O'Connor, former President Joe Biden's physician, refused to answer questions from the House Oversight Committee today, citing his Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination and doctor-patient confidentiality. This decision comes as the committee investigates concerns about Biden's health during his presidency
Republican Concerns, Democratic Objections
The Republican Chairman of the Committee, James Comer (R-Ky.), stated that Dr. O'Connor invoked the Fifth Amendment when asked if he was instructed to misrepresent President Biden's health or if he believed Biden was unfit for office. Dr. O'Connor's lawyers indicated that a Justice Department investigation ordered by former President Trump left their client "no choice" but to assert his constitutional rights, though they emphasized this does not imply any wrongdoing.
In contrast, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, Rep. Robert Garcia, criticized the inquiry, suggesting Republicans are prioritizing President Biden's health while millions of Americans lose access to affordable healthcare.
A Long-Standing Relationship and Prior Concerns
Dr. O'Connor, a long-time confidant who has been with Biden since his vice presidency, initially resisted testifying but was compelled to appear via subpoena. His lawyers' attempt to postpone the hearing was denied. Dr. O'Connor was also involved in the care of Beau Biden, President Biden's eldest son, before his passing in 2015.
Insights from the new book "Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Decision to Run Again" suggest Dr. O'Connor had concerns about the rigors of the presidency on Biden's health. He reportedly clashed with White House aides, advocating for more rest for the then-elderly president. The book also mentions O'Connor's occasional quips about the staff trying to "kill" Biden, and his efforts to keep him healthy, even warning that another bad fall could necessitate a wheelchair.
What's Next for the Inquiry?
With Dr. O'Connor's testimony cut short, the committee is now looking to interview other close Biden aides. Anthony Bernal, Jill Biden's top White House aide, recently withdrew from his scheduled interview after the Trump White House waived executive privilege, leading to a new subpoena for his appearance.
(Rh/Dr. Divina Johncy Rosario/MSM/SE)