At least for former Vice President Mike Pence, one of the most divisive controversies in American history seems to be nearing a satisfactory conclusion.
In dispute are the classified documents that have been linked to former President Donald Trump, current President Joe Biden, and Vice President Mike Pence.
The careless manner in which former presidents have handled these sensitive documents is surely cause for concern, given their sensitivity.
Trump and Biden are the most recognizable names associated with the classified documents scandal, which is understandable given the likelihood that they will face off in the 2024 general election. Regardless, the former vice president has been drawn into the controversy.
In January, a dozen classified documents were discovered at Pence’s residence in Indiana, prompting scrutiny.
Pence acknowledged at the time that the documents should not have been found in his possession.
“Let me be clear: Those classified documents should not have been in my personal residence,” Pence said back in January.
At the time, Pence was delivering a speech at Florida International University in Miami, in part to promote his new memoir, but also to take responsibility for the documents discovered in his residence.
“Mistakes were made, and I take full responsibility,” Pence said.
Five months later, it appears that the erstwhile vice president has no responsibilities to undertake.
CNN has obtained a letter from the Department of Justice stating that no charges will be filed against Vice President Pence for the alleged mismanagement of classified documents.
Officially, the investigation into the matter has concluded.
“The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department’s National Security Division have conducted an investigation into the potential mishandling of classified information,” the Justice Department letter to Pence’s attorney read. “Based on the results of that investigation, no criminal charges will be sought.”
CNN reported that while Team Pence is pleased with this decision, it was also anticipated.
This is unquestionably excellent news for Pence, who can now conclude a dark chapter in his post-Trump political career.
But the timing is also advantageous for Pence, as this effective exoneration comes just one week before many expect him to officially enter the 2024 Republican primary race.
However, this particular field is becoming increasingly congested.
Presumptive favorite Donald Trump, a person with whom Pence is quite familiar, is still widely regarded as the candidate with the highest likelihood of emerging from the field. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida is widely regarded as Trump’s leading rival.
In terms of his presidential viability, Pence is more likely to be placed alongside the 2024 GOP nominees Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Tim Scott.
Regardless, it is currently far too early to predict the outcome of the Republican primaries with certainty. At this point in the election season, it is more essential to avoid making mistakes than to highlight accomplishments.
And it appears that Pence has avoided any potential problems involving classified documents.