House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer has issued a statement following Anthony Bernal’s decision not to testify in an ongoing investigation. Bernal, who served as a former Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the First Lady, was expected to appear for a transcribed interview on June 26, 2025. The investigation is examining claims of President Joe Biden’s mental decline and the use of autopen for executive actions.
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.” He added that with no privilege left to invoke, Mr. Bernal is avoiding transparency. Comer expressed determination to issue a subpoena compelling Bernal’s testimony before the Committee.
The day prior, Neera Tanden, former Staff Secretary who managed the Biden autopen, testified before the Committee. She claimed minimal interaction with President Biden despite her significant role. Tanden explained her process involved sending decision memos for approval without knowing what transpired in between. Her testimony prompted questions regarding decision-making processes within the White House during this period.
Bernal’s legal team had initially confirmed his attendance for an interview but reversed their stance after being informed by the White House Counsel’s Office about waiving executive privilege related to this investigation.
In previous sessions of Congress, Chairman Comer had subpoenaed key aides including Anthony Bernal concerning similar issues. The Biden administration resisted these efforts by refusing deposition or interview access for those aides. Chairman Comer renewed his request earlier this year seeking cooperation from Bernal.
