FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: May 7, 2024 
Contact: Melvin Soto, Melvin.Soto@mail.house.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) introduced a resolution (H. Res. 1205) to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in inherent contempt of Congress for failing to respond to a lawfully issued subpoena. 

“Attorney General Garland’s refusal to turn over the subpoenaed information is not just an insult to the House of Representatives, but a direct threat to our constitutional republic. His non-compliance with a lawfully issued subpoena is a serious breach, and the only appropriate response is for Congress to exercise its powers under the Constitution to hold him in contempt,” emphasized Congresswoman Luna.

Inherent contempt, a long tradition in American and British systems, was first utilized by Congress in 1795 and remained a traditional tool for most of our nation’s history. It is long established that Congress’ power to enforce its subpoenas is integral to the legislative process. Without this power, Congress would be left at the mercy of the other branches to carry out its constitutional duties. 

The framers of our Constitution would never have allowed Congress to rely on the executive branch to enforce its requests for information, especially when the subject in question is the executive branch itself. Unfortunately, this is the standard practice used today by the House. This resolution marks a crucial step in reclaiming Congress’ rightful role in government and serves as a stark reminder to the Department of Justice that it is not above the law.

Website: luna.house.gov | X: @RepLuna | Instagram: @RepLuna 

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