In a significant development, support among House Judiciary Committee Republicans for an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Merrick Garland has intensified following House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s threat of impeachment proceedings. McCarthy’s warning comes in the wake of serious allegations raised by IRS whistleblowers regarding the alleged politicization of the Justice Department’s probe into Hunter Biden’s tax affairs.
Last week, IRS whistleblowers testified before Congress, revealing that the DOJ had reportedly hindered United States Attorney David Weiss from pursuing stronger charges against Hunter Biden in two separate instances. Furthermore, the whistleblowers claimed that Garland rejected a request to appoint a special counsel, aiming to establish a level of separation between the DOJ and President Joe Biden.
Gary Shapley, an IRS whistleblower, has stated that his allegations can be substantiated by multiple individuals with firsthand knowledge of his communication with Weiss. Through his attorney, Shapley emphasized that it is now up to the Justice Department and Attorney General Garland to address and reconcile the evidence.
While Garland firmly denies any political interference in the investigation into the president’s son, he acknowledged to Congress in March that he possessed the authority to authorize potential charges against Hunter Biden, even in a separate jurisdiction.
Amidst the conflicting narratives, McCarthy voiced his ultimatum on Sunday, warning of impeachment proceedings against Garland should the whistleblower allegations be corroborated.
Several Republican members of the House Judiciary Committee have expressed their support for McCarthy’s consideration of an impeachment inquiry. Congressman Darrell Issa (R-CA), a senior committee member, emphasized that the possibility of impeachment should not be dismissed lightly, citing the pervasive culture of corruption within the Justice Department, including the unprecedented targeting of parents.
Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) concurred, stating that the whistleblower allegations pertaining to the Biden investigation highlight the existence of a two-tiered system of justice. Hageman expressed her full support for Speaker McCarthy and welcomed the opportunity to question Attorney General Garland during Judiciary Committee hearings.
Echoing the sentiment, Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Congressman Troy Nehls (R-TX) have also voiced their support for impeachment proceedings against Garland, as confirmed by their senior staff members.
Congressman Chip Roy (R-TX) has emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, affirming that the allegations raise questions about the potential for impeachment. Roy asserted the Judiciary Committee’s obligation to pursue the matter diligently, wherever it may lead.
In an interview on Fox and Friends, McCarthy reiterated his commitment to launching impeachment inquiries against Garland if the whistleblower allegations are proven true. McCarthy expressed his concern over the conflicting statements made by Garland and Weiss, emphasizing the need for a resolution by July 6.
