Dunn Defends Biden's Fitness in House Testimony Amid Cognitive Decline Probe

A former senior White House communications advisor, Anita Dunn, testified before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Thursday. Dunn, who has a long-standing relationship with President Biden, addressed questions from investigators regarding the president's fitness for office.

Dunn's opening statement, obtained by The Hill, strongly defended President Biden's ability to perform his duties. She asserted that, based on her observations, Biden made all the crucial decisions expected of a U.S. president. She acknowledged that Biden relied on senior advisors for execution and daily operations, but emphasized his clear authority and involvement in decision-making. Following her testimony, Dunn declined to answer questions from reporters.

Her assessment contrasted with some other former Biden staffers. Ron Klain, Biden's first White House chief of staff, reportedly told the committee that Biden's energy levels decreased and his memory worsened during his presidency.

The House Oversight Committee, under the leadership of Rep. James Comer, is investigating concerns about Biden's cognitive abilities and whether he was aware of significant presidential actions, such as pardons issued using the White House autopen.

While close to Biden, Dunn was not part of the inner circle, or "politburo," that allegedly sought to conceal Biden's cognitive decline, according to a book by reporters Alex Thompson and Jake Tapper. Dunn and others voluntarily participated in private interviews with the committee. However, former White House physician Dr. Kevin O'Connor and former advisor to First Lady Jill Biden, Anthony Bernal, invoked their Fifth Amendment rights.