The GOP-Led House Steps In
In a dramatic twist, the GOP-led House has made a quiet yet powerful move by filing an amicus brief in Steve Bannon’s contempt of Congress case. This rare intervention challenges the legitimacy of the Democrat-led January 6 Select Committee, arguing that it failed to adhere to chamber rules, thereby invalidating the subpoenas issued to Bannon.
- House Intervention: The GOP-led House has filed an amicus brief in Steve Bannon’s contempt of Congress case.
- Committee Legitimacy: The brief argues that the January 6 Select Committee was improperly constituted.
- Potential Impact: This intervention could provide crucial support for Bannon’s appeal.
Speaker Johnson’s Promise
Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, promised in June to intervene in Bannon’s case. He stated, “We’re working on filing an amicus brief with his appellate work there in his case because the January 6 committee was, we think, wrongfully constituted. We think the work was tainted. We think that they may have very well covered up evidence and maybe even more nefarious activities.”
The Controversial Subpoenas
Bannon, a former Trump White House adviser, refused two subpoenas from the committee, citing executive privilege. He was convicted on two charges of contempt of Congress and sentenced to four months in prison. Bannon, who calls himself a “political prisoner,” is now appealing his conviction. The House’s intervention could significantly bolster his appeal.
Questioning the Committee’s Constitution
The House brief argues that the select committee was improperly constituted. According to House Resolution 503, then-Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi was required to appoint 13 members, including five Republicans. However, only nine members were ever appointed. Furthermore, the resolution required the committee to consult with its minority party ranking member before issuing a subpoena. The House argues that the committee never had a ranking member as defined by House rules.
The previous Congress, under Pelosi, claimed that former GOP Rep. Liz Cheney was serving as the ranking member. However, she actually served as the Vice Chair of the Committee, a role distinct from the ranking member according to House Rules.
A Turning Point?
The GOP-led House’s intervention in Steve Bannon’s case is more than a legal maneuver. It challenges the legitimacy of the January 6 Select Committee, potentially turning the tide in Bannon’s favor. This move underscores the ongoing political battles and the high stakes involved as Bannon continues his fight against what he views as a politically motivated prosecution.
Freedom Financial News Team
