House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has blocked high-profile Republican Reps. Jim Jordan and Jim Banks from a special committee to investigate the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, drawing outrage from critics who say Pelosi has proved the probe is a partisan “charade.”
Pelosi’s announcement Wednesday followed House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy naming five Republicanswhom he wanted to serve on the committee, despite intra-party disagreement on whether to participate.
“This represents an egregious abuse of power and will irreparably damage this institution. Denying the voices of members who have served in the military and law enforcement, as well as leaders of standing committees, has made it undeniable that this panel has lost all legitimacy and credibility and shows the speaker is more interested in playing politics than seeking the truth,” McCarthy said moments after Pelosi set off the latest partisan clash on Capitol Hill.
“Unless Speaker Pelosi reverses course and seats all five Republican nominees, Republicans will not be party to their sham process and will instead pursue our own investigation of the facts.”
Rep. Mark Green (R-Tenn.) colorfully commented: “Pelosi is a dictator. She celebrated Texas Dems’ refusal to debate and vote the foundation of democracy — and now she rejects the Republican representation on a committee. Nice week, Queen Pelosi.”