(TheConservativeTimes.org) – House Republicans are considering impeaching Attorney General Merrick Garland after Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy of California suggested an inquiry. This surprised some members, but a faction within the GOP already has begun to weigh the option as a punitive measure against key Biden administration officials they disagree with. Pressure is also mounting upon FBI Director Christopher Wray, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and even President Biden.
McCarthy’s moves are patient and deliberate, indicating that he understands the weight this has optically ahead of the 2024 elections if Republicans wish to retain the lower chamber and appear objective in their findings. McCarthy shows particular interest in pursuing Garland and the Department of Justice (DOJ), both of which have been criticized by many within the GOP’s congressional ranks.
The Speaker asserted that Garland’s DOJ may be covering up aspects of the investigation into Hunter Biden. “When a prosecutor shields his boss’s son from investigators, it smells like a cover-up,” McCarthy said. He questioned why “Garland’s DOJ did not aggressively follow the money,“ insinuating they may fear the answer.
While the Speaker may be building the case for potential impeachment, not all members of the Republican caucus are united. Republican Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado was quoted as saying, “I’m not in favor of cutting DOJ,” which could restrict which conservative measures are approached against Biden administration officials. With only 222 in their house majority, with 218 being the minimum threshold, Republicans will need to have a united front on whatever method they use to play offense against the Executive branch.
An alternative path that has also been considered is using the Holman Rule to cancel the salaries of Biden administration officials. This could allow for a more united Republican caucus if there is disagreement on whether Garland’s case reaches impeachment level. For this to happen, Garland’s actions would have to be deemed “high crimes or misdemeanors.”
It appears McCarthy will continue to be methodical in his approach, and political observers will be watching to see how his actions could impact the upcoming general election for House members and Republicans across the board.
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