Tensions flare in House weaponization committee hearing over witness questioning

A hearing of the House Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government became contentious when Democratic members of the committee attempted to cross-examine witnesses. Witnesses Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry gave testimony and were allowed to leave without further questioning by Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH). Democratic Representative Stephen Lynch (D-MA) spoke out about the lack of the ability to cross-examine witnesses, stating that they made “outlandish allegations”. Jordan defended his decision, citing precedence of excusing duly elected officials, such as Schmitt and Landry, from cross-examination. Lynch contested this, arguing that the witnesses were “direct witnesses” who provided “in part” false evidence. A heated exchange ensued between Lynch and Jordan, with Lynch calling the decision “disgraceful”

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) made a point of order that Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) was not subject to cross-examination despite presenting “salacious” testimony. Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-CA) contested Johnson’s assessment of Raskin’s testimony. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) pushed back on the notion that Landry was exempt from cross-examination because he is not a current or former member of Congress. Lynch called for the testimony of Schmitt and Landry to be struck from the congressional record, leading to Jordan asking if he wanted to censor it. The committee did not adjourn, and lawyer D. John Sauer was allowed to begin his testimony.

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