Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) suggested Friday that Congress could protect itself from an “unleashed” Trump administration.
Swalwell warned: 'Trump is laying the groundwork for an unleashed regime' in an editorial An article published by MSNBC cited past statements by President-elect Trump, including vows to retaliate against perceived political opponents and a history of feuds in the media.
Swalwell cited a report released by the Justice Department's Office of Inspector General that revealed that more than 40 congressional staffers, two Democrats, and several journalists, including then-Rep. It cited reports related to access to records. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Swalwell.
Although not required, the Justice Department never told the court it was seeking records of members of Congress or Congressional staff.
The 96-page report concluded that the acquisition of members and staff records did not violate Justice Department policy at the time, but the move still “risks chilling Congress' ability to oversee the executive branch.” …and [creates]At the very least, there appears to be inappropriate interference by the executive branch in the legitimate oversight activities of the legislative branch. ”
Mr. Swalwell also echoed the Supreme Court's decision earlier this year that gave presidents absolute immunity for acts that fall within the core responsibilities of their office and presumptive immunity for all other official acts. He also referred to the judgment.
“Who can America turn to for checks and balances? To uphold the rule of law? What will Trump, completely unchecked, unchecked and without guardrails, do to his opponents? How do we succeed in fencing?'' Swalwell warned in an op-ed.
“The answer is Congress,” he said, acknowledging that the answer might seem “ridiculous” given that Republicans held majorities in both chambers after Election Day. However, he cited former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who withdrew his candidacy for attorney general after he was expected to face an uphill battle for Senate confirmation.
Gates has come under fire as the House Ethics Committee investigates allegations of sexual misconduct and illegal drug use. Gaetz's resignation from Congress effectively ended the investigation, and the committee decided not to release its report.
“By uniting, six senators said 'no way' and made Gaetz's path impossible. Do they have the will to do it again? And over and over again? And then… Until Trump gets the message that they won't do it.'' Rubber stamps the path to American dictatorship? ” Swalwell wrote.
“Congress remains the last, best check against Kash Patel's legitimate revenge tour,” he added, referring to Trump's nomination to head the FBI. The choice has faced pushback from some concerned that Trump's nomination could lead to change. Concerning the independence of the office.
