Biden Classified Documents Story

The fact that a few classified documents were found by Biden's people is not really surprising. The details are still not clear, including what they entail, but the differences with Trump have been noted. This includes not only the scope in question but how much the Trump side is hindering the obtaining of documents even when repeatedly asked.

The coverage so far has been okay in various ways as shown by a chart flagged here by someone quite inclined to be totally cynical about the MSM. There is not some pure "both sides do it."  This is not just "Her EMAILZ" all over again.  I have not paid much attention to it and realize there might be some "both sides" flavor.  But, I have repeatedly seen coverage that recognizes there are clear differences.  

Again, it is not really surprising that with all the material Biden has dealt with over the years that some documents might have fallen under the cracks. The numbers are like "ten" or something, not the hundreds at issue in the Trump situation.  This might suggest the need for better oversight of documents, just like the Hillary Clinton story suggested to me that maybe better regulations were required there.  But, nothing new.

I realize -- not being naive -- the dangers of "both sides do it," and it doesn't help that it is taking so much time to investigate Trump.  For those inclined to take potshots at Garland here, I note that even now (though reports are the special grand jury investigation is complete), the Georgian prosecuted didn't bring charges.  And, she has a lot less on her plate, including the many federal prosecutions arising from 9/11 ongoing or done.  

A special counsel was appointed by Garland to deal with the Biden classified documents investigation.  I think this analysis, by someone who is more conservative than I and at times a tool makes sense.  The analysis also notes the significant differences between the two cases.  

The special counsel was appointed for Trump once he announced he was running for president.  This made sense.  The appointment here will help his case, including dealing with claims of special treatment of Biden and calls for a special counsel.  The control of the House of Representatives factors in here too.  Some were upset that it took so long in one case and was quickly done in another.  The two are not the same cases.  

One TPM analysis spoke of the "confounding double standard" involved in picking special counsels.  I am aware of the two chosen by Garland.  Jack Smith (if that is his real name) had various roles in democratically controlled offices.  Oh, he's different, since he comes off as an apolitical figure.  That's a charming handwave right there.  

Robert K. Hur does have various conservative bona fides, including being appointed by Trump.  It makes some degree of sense to appoint a special counsel that looks independent.  And, to be clear, Hur also worked for the Obama Justice Department for some years.  Garland's first pick was praised even by those wary about selecting one.  Maybe, we can trust his judgment?

The whole matter does have an "oh please" character to it. Just what we need and all that.  The other major thing (putting aside control of the House) on my radar is Gov. Hochul and her screwing up royally the selection of a new chief judge of the court of appeals.  This was something of a surprise to me since her first pick was basically okay.

And, yes, there is the upcoming debt ceiling fight, which could have been avoided if certain senators agreed to end the stupid thing.  OTOH, even President Biden at one point said it would be wrong to do that. A stupid comment on his part and I doubt he would have vetoed it if done.  So, you know, 2023 is looking to be a tiresome year so far.