Trump declines to back Garland impeachment

Former President Donald Trump on Monday declined to back the impeachment of Attorney General Merrick Garland, insisting that was a matter for congressional Republicans.

Appearing on "The Howie Carr Show," Trump said he would "leave that up to them," but added "I'm surprised at Merrick Garland."

"I know he's a liberal guy, but I thought that... I am so surprised that he's doing what he's doing," Trump said. "He's really protecting Biden and you can't really protect him at this point, it's all out in the open."

Trump went on to outline an alleged Biden family business matter in which first son Hunter Biden threatened a Chinese official by claiming his father was with him waiting on a call.

"I am sitting here with my father and we would like to understand why the commitment made has not been fulfilled," reads a WhatsApp message from Hunter to Henry Zhao, the contents of which came to light as the result of testimony from IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley, who had participated in the investigation into the younger Biden.

"Tell the director that I would like to resolve this now before it gets out of hand, and now means tonight," the message continues. "And, Z, if I get a call or text from anyone involved in this other than you, Zhang, or the chairman, I will make certain that between the man sitting next to me and every person he knows and my ability to forever hold a grudge that you will regret not following my direction. I am sitting here waiting for the call with my father."

Trump went on to note Hunter's occupation of Biden residences where the former vice president was found to have stored classified materials.

The former president is facing an indictment from special counsel Jack Smith, whom Garland appointed, with relation to his alleged mishandling of classified materials. Trump has pleaded not guilty. He has, however, contended that the case is part of a longstanding political effort to damage his reputation.

Garland, for his part, has faced backlash from Republicans over myriad scandals, including whistleblower claims of political bias in the DOJ and alleged retaliation against those making such claims.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.