What’s going on in the White House?
Legal scholars have raised concerns regarding potential legal repercussions President Joe Biden may face following a series of incidents where his dogs have bitten Secret Service agents.
Peter Shane, a constitutional law professor at New York University, highlighted the complexity of asserting presidential immunity in such cases involving Biden’s German shepherds, Major and Commander, and their aggressive behavior towards Secret Service agents.
“The argument for presidential immunity would be challenging to sustain here. It would require establishing a direct link between the dogs’ actions and the president’s official duties, which is unclear,” Shane elaborated. He noted that unless there’s an independent restriction preventing Secret Service agents from suing for on-the-job injuries, Biden could be susceptible to lawsuits.
In response to the biting incidents, Major was relocated, and Commander took his place. Notably, walking the White House dogs is part of the agents’ daily responsibilities.
Recently released Secret Service documents under the Freedom of Information Act revealed Commander’s troubling record, with at least 24 documented biting incidents between October 2022 and July 2023. Agents sustained injuries to various body parts, including wrists, forearms, and chests. Some bites required medical attention, with ten necessitating treatment by White House doctors.
Incidents included a bite on a magazine of a gun and another causing a deep wound requiring stitches, resulting in the suspension of White House East Wing tours. The Secret Service adjusted security procedures in response to these attacks.
Despite efforts including additional training, leashing, and consultations with experts, Commander’s behavior persisted, leading to his departure from the White House in October 2023.
First Lady Jill Biden’s office acknowledged the challenges faced in managing Commander’s behavior despite various interventions.
This has resulted in professor at George Washington University Jonathan Turley saying President Biden could be sued for being unable to control his dogs.
While these records focus on Secret Service agents, concerns have been raised about potential liabilities for the Bidens, especially considering multiple dogs displaying similar aggression. Legal expert Jonathan Turley suggested that if brought to court, the Bidens might be held liable, potentially facing restrictions on future dog ownership or mandated training for both their pets and themselves.