A hearing of the House Weaponization Committee Thursday devolved into representatives talking over each other and multiple breaches of decorum as members discussed the cross-examination of witnesses.
The committee, established by Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and led by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) erupted in shouts and accusations as Republicans presented two witnesses supporting claims that President Joe Biden’s Department of Justice improperly influenced social media companies to target political opponents.
The claims were challenged by Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA), who confronted Jordan for dismissing witnesses without challenging their “outlandish” statements.
Lynch said: “These two witnesses presented evidence that I believe in part is false, and I would like the opportunity to cross-examine these witnesses—”
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Jordan responded by assuring Democrats would have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses.
Lynch then complained that Mike Johnson (R-LA) was claiming his time. Jordan allowed Johnson to continue speaking, arguing that Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) did not allow Republicans to cross-examine witnesses who allegedly presented “salacious” content.
The phrase, “salacious content,” prompted shouts and groans.
Lynch then called to “strike the testimony” presented by Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry and Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO).
Jordan asked for clarification: ‘“You mean you want to censor it?”
Lynch replied carefully: “I want to strike it. If we aren’t able to probe the veracity of their statements, the truthfulness of their statements.”
Jordan assured: “You will be given your five minutes here when we get to the five-minute question.”
Lynch shot back: “They’re not here! We won’t be able to ask, they scurried away with your complicity! They refuse to defend. In a country of 330 million people, you couldn’t find two people to defend their statements. That’s pretty disgraceful!”
Lynch then moved to adjourn, saying the inability to cross-examine witnesses was a “mockery and a disgrace.” He demanded: “There’s a motion on the floor to adjourn and it is not debatable. If you don’t know the rules of the committee, then talk to your parliamentarian!”
Jordan replied: “You were not recognized for your motion.”
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