The move to defend the former president in a lawsuit arising from his comments about an alleged incident in his private life means taxpayers could foot the bill if Carroll is awarded damages. It also could be seen as a departure from Biden's remarks before taking office. During the campaign, Biden has accused Trump of using the Justice Department to advance his personal and political interests.
Spokesman Andrew Bates said the White House was not consulted by the Justice Department "on the decision to file this brief or its contents."
"And while we are not going to comment on this ongoing litigation, the American people know well that President Biden and his team have utterly different standards from their predecessors for what qualify as acceptable statements," Bates said.
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