Washington, D.C. – The White House has launched an investigation into the discovery of cocaine within the West Wing, with national security adviser Jake Sullivan promising “appropriate consequences” if any members of the Biden administration are found responsible. The Secret Service is currently conducting an active inquiry to determine who brought the illegal substance into the White House.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the White House’s commitment to strict drug-use policies during a briefing held at the White House on Friday. He stated, “We have rigorous drug-use policies here at the White House. We take those extremely seriously.” The administration’s stance reflects their dedication to maintaining a drug-free environment within the highest corridors of power.
The suspicious powder, later confirmed to be cocaine after testing, was discovered in the West Wing lobby on Sunday evening, during President Joe Biden’s absence as he was staying at the Camp David presidential retreat. As a precautionary measure, a brief evacuation was conducted, ensuring the safety of all personnel within the premises.
Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, disclosed that the cocaine was found in the West Wing lobby, which serves as a reception area for White House visitors. He added that the Secret Service’s investigation remains open and active, as they diligently work to determine the source of the illicit substance.
In response to inquiries about potential legal consequences for the responsible party, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre refrained from offering definitive statements. When asked if the individual involved should be prosecuted, she replied, “I’m just not going to get into hypotheticals from here.” Jean-Pierre’s comments reflect the administration’s commitment to allowing the investigation to unfold before drawing conclusions.
Meanwhile, Representative James Comer, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight, has requested a briefing from the Secret Service as part of the committee’s independent investigation into the cocaine discovery. In a letter addressed to the Secret Service, Comer expressed his concerns, calling the presence of illegal drugs in the White House “unacceptable” and a “shameful moment in the White House’s history.”
Visitors to the White House, including guests and staff, are subject to strict security protocols upon entry. Prior to being allowed on the White House campus, visitors must undergo thorough background screenings. Additionally, individuals entering the premises are subjected to metal-detector screenings. The White House lobby, where visitors enter, is a high-traffic area where cellphones are required to be left in small boxes.
Amidst speculation and unfounded rumors, Jean-Pierre firmly dismissed the notion that any member of the Biden family could be linked to the cocaine discovery. She clarified that President Biden and his family were not present at the White House during the period in question, stating, “They were not here… So to ask that question is actually incredibly irresponsible.”
As the investigation unfolds, the White House remains committed to upholding its drug-use policies and ensuring the safety and integrity of the administration. The Secret Service continues its active inquiry, leaving no stone unturned in their search for the responsible party. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
