New email records released by the National Archives reveal that then-Vice President Joe Biden used a pseudonymous email account to discuss sensitive foreign policy matters. The emails were made public following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit. They show that Biden, advised by Antony Blinken, engaged in foreign policy communications on his private email account, including details about a failed North Korean missile launch in April 2012.
The emails indicate Biden had been under scrutiny for his use of private email accounts, particularly when his son Hunter Biden's laptop had emails linked to Biden's pseudonymous address. One email from Blinken stated that the North Korean rocket had failed during its launch process and that they would take time to assess the situation. The email showed that sensitive matters were discussed through a private account while handling national security communications.
Biden reportedly used at least three pseudonymous email accounts during his time as vice president. These communications included briefings from various national security advisers and included sensitive topics like geopolitical dynamics in Iraq and updates on international relations. Some details in the communications are redacted under an exemption that protects confidential advice between a president and their advisers.
These email records emerged from the Southeastern Legal Foundation's lawsuit, urging the National Archives to release Biden's emails, revealing he had preserved a larger collection than those involved in previous political email scandals. Although private email use for official business is discouraged by law, Biden's emails suggest compliance with federal preservation requirements. However, the sensitive information discussed raises security concerns about using less secure private email.
The emails show Biden also communicated with family members about both personal and professional matters. He frequently included his sons and brother in discussions, even sharing information about business affairs. Despite concerns raised by investigations into the use of private emails, including findings from a 2019 State Department review on similar matters involving Hillary Clinton, the records demonstrate Biden's use of such accounts during his vice presidency.
For example, Biden received updates regarding Iraq several times, revealing that his staff directly consulted him via private emails, including discussions about political dynamics and security issues. The correspondence reflects how Biden maintained communication through private channels, creating potential vulnerabilities in official communications.
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