Andrew Bates tells Oversight committee he saw Biden "in charge," denies any cover-up of fitness

Andrew Bates, a former White House deputy press official, told the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on Aug. 21, 2025, that "in the White House, it was universally understood that Joe Biden was in charge." Bates gave the interview as part of the committee's inquiry into questions raised about Mr. Biden's age, health and fitness for office.

Bates said he observed the president working closely with senior staff and defended the White House's routines for clearing major actions. "People were very conscientious about ensuring that he had signed off on things," he told the committee, adding that this extended to press statements and other public materials. When asked directly whether he had any knowledge of decisions being made or executive actions taken without the president's knowledge or authorization, Bates answered, "No."

The witness described his impression of Mr. Biden's mental acuity in direct terms. "I had faith in his sharpness," Bates said, while noting he had observed some physical changes such as walking more slowly tied to spinal arthritis and a prior foot injury. Bates said he had not seen anyone step in to perform the duties of the presidency in the president's place except during medical delegation when the president himself had authorized it for a procedure.

Bates also repeatedly denied knowledge of unauthorized use of signing devices. In response to a line of questioning about the autopen and whether it had been used to sign executive orders, memoranda or pardons without the president's knowledge, his answer was "No," and he described the White House as diligent about approvals.

The testimony came amid broader Committee questioning about the press office's role in responding to media coverage, interactions with senior advisers and public messaging. Bates told the panel he frequently briefed senior staff about reporter inquiries and sought their input on how to respond, rather than relaying private concerns about the president's fitness. He also described multiple interactions with senior advisers, cabinet members and outside reporters that were prompted by media coverage.

Bates's remarks do not constitute a formal finding by the committee. He repeatedly stated that his comments reflected his personal observations and the communications routines he observed while working in the White House.

Bates's interview is part of a wider set of public and congressional examinations into the president's fitness for office and the handling of related communications.