Francis “Frank” Biden, the president’s brother, was hired as a non-lawyer, a senior consultant with Berman Law Group, a Boca Raton law firm in 2018. The company often praises Frank Biden’s ties to the president, introducing Frank and your family members prominently on your website, in ads and on social networks.
Last week, the White House said it is its policy not to allow companies to imply that they have Biden’s support or endorsement. But they declined to comment on the record specifically about the announcement.
On Wednesday, a White House official told CNN that there is currently a process in place that involves the White House Council Office and family representatives to address issues as any issues of potential conflicts of interest may arise.
In 2020, before the November elections, the company also opened two lawsuits against China and other Chinese government entities related to the coronavirus outbreak. Press releases for the two lawsuits mention that “Francis Biden, brother of Joe Biden, is a senior consultant with the company.”
The company claims that Frank Biden was not involved in the cases.
“We have not spoken with federal government officials about any of our cases. There were no discussions between the company (including Frank Biden), with President Biden, the campaign, transition or administration about the law firm or any cases, including China affairs. related, nor will there be, “said Matthew Moore, a lawyer with the Berman Law Group, in a statement to CNN.
But the company made widespread public disclosure of its politically connected employee.
The president and the White House say the Biden family will keep their distance from West Wing affairs.
“President Biden set and maintained the highest ethical standards for himself, his administration and those around him, and he promised an ‘absolute wall’ with the private commercial interests of any member of the family. Any implication to the contrary is totally untrue. and without the support of the facts, “said Michael Gwin, a White House spokesman, in a statement.
“We will manage this as the Obama-Biden administration,” said Biden. “No one in our family and extended family is going to be involved in any governmental enterprise or foreign policy.”
He added: “And nobody has an office in this place. They always have access to Pop and Nana, but nobody (will have an office).”
The president also indicated that he has sought to avoid the perception of conflicts of interest during his years in public office.
“I remember that an accountant years ago said, ‘You know, you can charge (Senate) part of the gas you use in the vehicle at your home.’ And I said, ‘No,’ “said Biden.” That’s how I see it: the foul line is 15 feet away from the basket. Never approach me more than 17 feet, because it really is a matter of public trust. “
But questions about the actions of family members go beyond Frank Biden.
Then President Donald Trump, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani and his Republican allies used questions about Biden’s foreign trade ties in an attempt to characterize the Biden family as corrupt.
Caroline Kelly and Heather Butler of CNN contributed to this report.