Pence Says He Takes ‘Full Responsibility’ For Mishandling Classified Documents

On Friday, former Vice President Mike Pence announced that he takes “full responsibility” for the mishandled classified documents that were found in his home earlier this week. 

“I remain very confident that during my time in the Congress of the United States we were very careful and very cautious,” Pence told Fox News. “And as we were during my time as vice president.”

“But, again, during the closing days of the administration, when materials were boxed and assembled, some of which were shipped to our personal residence, mistakes were made,” he continued. “We were not aware of it at the time until we did the review just a few short weeks ago. But I take full responsibility for it and we’re going to continue to support every appropriate inquiry into it.”

When asked if believes that a special counsel should be appointed to oversee his case, Pence responded, “I would leave that decision to the attorney general and the Department of Justice.”

“And, again, I — this was an unfortunate development,” Pence added. “And I — I think it’s important that our office simply cooperate fully in any investigation by either the Department of Justice, the Archives, or the Congress of the United States, and we’re determined to do that.”

Pence’s comments mark a stark contrast to President Biden’s reaction to mishandled classified documents being found in his possession, who said he has “no regrets” about his actions.

“Mr. President, may I ask you a question about the classified documents, sir?  Do you have any regret — regret, sir?” the reporter asked. 

“I will answer the question, but here’s the deal: You know, what quite frankly bugs me is that we have a serious problem here we’re talking about.  We’re talking about what’s going on.  And the American people don’t quite understand why you don’t ask me questions about that,” Biden snapped.

After he was asked the question again, Biden said he has “no regrets” about his mishandling of classified documents. 

“We’re fully cooperating, looking forward to getting this resolved quickly,” Biden said. “I think you’re gonna find there’s nothing there. I have no regrets. I’m following what the lawyers have told me they want me to do — that’s exactly what we’re doing. There’s no there, there.”