James Biden, the younger brother of former US Vice President Joe Biden, has been caught on FBI tapes as part of an unrelated bribery probe.
The investigation involves two private equity investors who allegedly paid more than $900,000 to a business owned by Biden to win network infrastructure contracts with federal agencies. Investigators for the Department of Justice (DOJ) uncovered the alleged scheme when they raided the homes and businesses of the two men.
The tapes reveal James Biden discussing ways to divert business away from competitors and how he used his connections with powerful political figures to ease government regulations. In one conversation, Biden talks about how he was able to receive grants from the Department of Defense to help his company.
It is unclear if any of Biden’s actions violated the law. However, the tapes do show that he had a close relationship with the two investors and was informed about their deal-making.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to review the tapes, emails, bank accounts, and any other evidence that may point to any wrongdoing.
This latest investigation adds fuel to the already contentious debate over the Biden family’s involvement in politics. While the Bidens have touted their profound public service, they have also garnered criticism for their close ties to powerful business interests and possible conflicts of interest.
This particular story highlights just how deep some of these ties are and demonstrates how easily even the most connected individuals can become embroiled in bribery and corruption.
The implications of this case could prove to be far-reaching. If the evidence shows that Joe Biden or any other family members were aware or complicit in this arrangement, their political and reputation capital would be significantly tarnished. This could further weaken Joe Biden’s campaign for the U.S. presidency in 2020.