🧵 Will be live-tweeting when the @HouseJudiciary
committee hearing on "Oversight of the Department of Justice" begins at 10:45 am. Attorney General Barr is the sole witness.
(Delay in start time due to Chair Nadler's car accident. Don't worry; no one was injured).
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committee hearing on "Oversight of the Department of Justice" begins at 10:45 am. Attorney General Barr is the sole witness.
(Delay in start time due to Chair Nadler's car accident. Don't worry; no one was injured).
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The Barr hearing will air on @MSNBC and other cable networks. You can also watch via the committee's website on Youtube here:
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Some members of Congress don't care to protect their colleagues. Note the lack of masks. That's Jim Jordan appearing bare-faced. Not sure who that guy below is.
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Oh, look. A "prebuttal" from Bill Barr. Thanks for sharing @rgoodlaw
republicans-judiciary.house.gov/wp-content/upl…
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republicans-judiciary.house.gov/wp-content/upl…
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Okay, I've searched this paranoid rant of a document.
How many times did these terms appear:
Racism 0
Black Lives 0
Antifa 8
Obama 107
Non-violent 2 (to refer to Roger Stone!)
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How many times did these terms appear:
Racism 0
Black Lives 0
Antifa 8
Obama 107
Non-violent 2 (to refer to Roger Stone!)
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Bill Barr's 50-page "pre-buttal" seems to be obsessed with Barack Obama. He's mentioned more than even Trump.
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Here we go. Nadler has gaveled in
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Chair Nadler mentioned that Majority Leader Steny Hoyer is present.
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Nadler said members should all wear masks unless they are speaker.
Now he begins his opening remarks. Thanks Barr for being here. First appearance before the committee.
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Now he begins his opening remarks. Thanks Barr for being here. First appearance before the committee.
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Now historical background re Congress creating the Department of Justice and the reasoning. Foundation of professionals, impartial admistration of law.
Also to enforce nation's first civil rights laws after Civil War. Ensure right to vote, and stem tied of systemic racism.
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Also to enforce nation's first civil rights laws after Civil War. Ensure right to vote, and stem tied of systemic racism.
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Nadler said these two objectives (1) impartial administration of justice and (2) enforce civil rights laws to protect American citizens are at risk now.
"Pivotal moment in our nation's history"
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"Pivotal moment in our nation's history"
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💥We are witnessing the federal government turning violently on its own people. Not done by president alone. After Trump humiliated his first attorney general, "he found you."
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Nadler levels these charges at Barr's justice department
1. unconstitutionally suppressing dissent in cities where federal gov't is not invited; 2. open hostility to BLM movement;
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1. unconstitutionally suppressing dissent in cities where federal gov't is not invited; 2. open hostility to BLM movement;
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3.spread disinformation about voter fraud, tried to change census rules, to assist president's re-election; 4. amplified pres' consipracy theories by misrepresenting Mueller report and not holding Russia accountable and undermining justice department lawyers
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There was a fifth on that list
Dangerous expansive view of executive power. Direct threat to liberty and safety of the country
Nadler says, "we were warned" at the confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary committee.
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Dangerous expansive view of executive power. Direct threat to liberty and safety of the country
Nadler says, "we were warned" at the confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary committee.
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Nadler calls all of this a "failure of leadership." Said this committee has a responsibility to protect the American people from the corruption he described where their needs are only addressed after the powerful are served.
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Oh, boy. It's Jim Jordan.
He begins with the word "spying."
Shouty. Shout. Shout. Oy. Papadopolous. Drink. (For me the drinking is iced coffee)
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He begins with the word "spying."
Shouty. Shout. Shout. Oy. Papadopolous. Drink. (For me the drinking is iced coffee)
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We've got a Jim Comey, a Christopher Steele. It's like @realDonaldTrump gave Jim Jordan a list of names to hit. Now we've got a Horowitz. And an Obama-Biden. And another Obama-Biden. Ooooh, and "a secret agent lady."
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@realDonaldTrump Nice. A Sally Yates and a Susan Rice and a James Clapper. Niiiice. He got a Peter Strzok and a dossier.
Impressive, he even got the fact that Trump won in 2016 in there.
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Impressive, he even got the fact that Trump won in 2016 in there.
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We have some praise of Michael Flynn. Another "Obama-Biden" DOJ.
This is so BORING. Hey @realDonaldTrump, your boy Jordan is boring, boring, boring.
Old, boring, repetitive. Yaaaaawn
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This is so BORING. Hey @realDonaldTrump, your boy Jordan is boring, boring, boring.
Old, boring, repetitive. Yaaaaawn
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Hey Jim Jordan, I think you are actually making @RepJerryNadler's point for him. This is supposed to be a hearing about how the DOJ under Barr is FOCUSED on Trump instead of the American people. And you have been yammering on about how Trump is a victim
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What a disaster this is. I am ashamed for the Republicans.
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Now Jordan is playing a video. Or trying to. It's a video of people saying the words "peaceful protesters." And then juxtaposing with someone who lost a loved one in St. Louis. And a burning building.
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Now he's showing images of looting. This is an attempt to conflate the peaceful protesters with those who were looting or violent. Separate places, separate times.
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What a disaster this is. Trump's America is on fire. I don't think Jim Jordan is helping.
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As a "suburban mom," I have to say this video makes me want Trump gone now. This is AMERICAN CARNAGE. That the heck is wrong with Jim Jordan and the Republicans?
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The video is done. Nadler quipped that Jordan should not complain about the length of his opening statement again.
Nadler is introducing Barr, who is now rising to be sworn in.
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Nadler is introducing Barr, who is now rising to be sworn in.
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Apparently Barr has a written statement. I have not seen it yet, but perhaps it's posted on the website now.
Barr is beginning. He is praising John Lewis.
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Barr is beginning. He is praising John Lewis.
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Barr begins by saying there is one standard of justice that applies to everyone. He says the president has told him to exercise his "independent judgment."
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Before he took this job he was almost 70 years old and "slipping into retirement."
REALLY? Then why did he send in that memo in the summer of 2018 explaining his odd view that a sitting president could not obstruct justice?
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REALLY? Then why did he send in that memo in the summer of 2018 explaining his odd view that a sitting president could not obstruct justice?
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Barr turns to George Floyd. Speaking about the 1960s when Jim Crow and explicitly racist edifice was torn down. He speaks to diversity on police forces.
"Although the death of George Floyd at the hands of police was a shocking event" he then pointed to decline
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"Although the death of George Floyd at the hands of police was a shocking event" he then pointed to decline
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These "events strike a deep chord in the Black community." Said part of a "lingering concern" that Black people will be unfairly treated. He referenced Tim Scott being pulled over.
Said "these concerns are legitimate" that many Blacks feel they are treating suspiciously
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Said "these concerns are legitimate" that many Blacks feel they are treating suspiciously
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Said "we in law enforcement" should make sure we do not have "two systems of justice."
Now he moves to saying it's "unfair and inconsistent" to demonize the police.
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Now he moves to saying it's "unfair and inconsistent" to demonize the police.
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"When communities turn on and pillory the police" officers become risk averse and crime rates go up.
He said the greatest risk to Black people is homicide by civilians, not by law enforcement.
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He said the greatest risk to Black people is homicide by civilians, not by law enforcement.
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"Violent rioters and anarchists have hijacked legitimate protests," he said, pointing to Portland, Oregon.
He said "the rioters have come equipped for fighting."
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He said "the rioters have come equipped for fighting."
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Barr said federal personnel are there to "defend the courthouse."
He said the actions in Portland are an "assault on the government of the United States."
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He said the actions in Portland are an "assault on the government of the United States."
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Said all lawmakers regardless of party should condemn these attacks
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Nadler's turn to ask questions. He begins with Barr announcing the launch of Operation Legend on July 22 with Trump.
How does this fit with Operation Relentless Pursuit? Nadler's suggestion is that Legend is just a "repackaging of existing operations".
Why the drama?
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How does this fit with Operation Relentless Pursuit? Nadler's suggestion is that Legend is just a "repackaging of existing operations".
Why the drama?
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People believe you are trying to help the President's re-election efforts. Conflict with police is central theme of President's campaign.
Did you pre-brand to help his campaign? Is that wrong to divert resources to do that?
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Did you pre-brand to help his campaign? Is that wrong to divert resources to do that?
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Barr said the "Relentless Pursuit" which started in fall was "quelched by Covid." So he said "we did reboot the program".
He said "there is serious violent crime in these cities. . .and mayors have been asking us for help."
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He said "there is serious violent crime in these cities. . .and mayors have been asking us for help."
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"Yes or no, have you discussed the president's re-election campaign" with president or anyone else?
Barr: "Obviously the topic comes up . . .it shouldn't be a surprise."
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Barr: "Obviously the topic comes up . . .it shouldn't be a surprise."
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In connection with his re-election have you ever discuss the current or future deployment of federal law enforcement.
Barr: "I am not going to get into my discussions with the president."
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Barr: "I am not going to get into my discussions with the president."
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"You really can't hide behind legal fictions, Mr. Barr. . . the president wants footage for his campaign ads and you appear to be serving it up to the president."
"The protesters aren't mobs. They're" mothers, and mayors and peaceful citizens.
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"The protesters aren't mobs. They're" mothers, and mayors and peaceful citizens.
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Good job, Chair Nadler, "Shame on you, Mr. Barr."
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Bill Barr said Nadler had "conflated" Project Legend. Said it does not involve confronting protesters.
Said the department has not flooded anywhere to confront protesters. He said in Portland the courthouse is under attack, and police he said are "within the permimeter"
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Said the department has not flooded anywhere to confront protesters. He said in Portland the courthouse is under attack, and police he said are "within the permimeter"
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He said, "we are on the defense. We are not out looking for trouble."
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Now we have Mike Johnson from Louisiana.
Barr said he's trying to "restore the rule of law." And said he did not think the DOJ had that previously.
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Barr said he's trying to "restore the rule of law." And said he did not think the DOJ had that previously.
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Barr on Johnson's time addresses Nadler's accusations.
Said I am not "punishing the president's enemies and helping his friends."
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Said I am not "punishing the president's enemies and helping his friends."
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Barr just called his own employees "the lying prosecutors" who wanted to put Stone in jail for 7-9 years.
Huh. But that was not the judges sentence and Trump commuted the shorter sentence. Just 40 months
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Huh. But that was not the judges sentence and Trump commuted the shorter sentence. Just 40 months
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Rep. Johnson (R-LA) is going after Obama. He seems to be citing that 50-page rant "pre-buttal" that I posted above. Complaining that Eric Holder was Obama's "wingman."
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"The president's playbook is to divert attention from his catastrophic failure in dealing with the Covid-19" pandemic, says Rep. @RepZoeLofgren
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Lofgren said the impression is that there is violence and that American people should be afraid of other American's. That's how he hopes to win the election.
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Lofgren said that Wall of Moms show up to make sure people are safe. They say they are being teargassed, shot at with beanbags and pepper spray.
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Lofgren is asking about the Executive Order that asked for deployment of troops to protect monuments.
Barr said "we've made arrests of people who are rioting" but said they are not troops.
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Barr said "we've made arrests of people who are rioting" but said they are not troops.
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Wow. How rude. A republican house member just accused Lofgren of not bothering to come to work. She is from California. I would argue that keeping her colleagues safe and staying near her constituents during this time is doing her job.
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Barr says to Rep. Chabot (R-OH), "since when is it okay to try to burn down a federal court?"
Of course that's not okay.
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Of course that's not okay.
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Discussion of weapons. (Slingshots, lasers, starting fires inside and on the perimeter).
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Chabot asks whether federal law enforcement would need to be there if state and local officials did their jobs?
Barr says the federal "re-enforcements" are needed because the local law enforcement allow them to attack the courthouse.
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Barr says the federal "re-enforcements" are needed because the local law enforcement allow them to attack the courthouse.
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Barr says the forces are not "storm troopers" but are special operations marshals which are tactical teams that are "padded and protected."
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Barr said there are 95 DHS federal protective services trying to protect the courthouse and three other buildings. "Federal functions and federal buildings."
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Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee asked to have photo of Lewis & Clark history professor who was injured by federal police in Portland. Lee also said the murder of George Floyd is not "shocking" but is outright "cold-blooded murder."
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I think Bill Barr said he did not agree with Lee that there was systemic racism in the justice system. But it was hard to hear him because he did not turn on his mic I think at that moment. That was not intentional. It's hard to remember to press the mic as a witiness.
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Rep. @JacksonLeeTX18 is providing stopping and arresting statistics to show systemic racism.
She asked why only one pattern or practice investigation since he took office?
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She asked why only one pattern or practice investigation since he took office?
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He is dodging Lee's question.
Lee asked if he was aware in FY19 only 27 out of every 100,000 charges involved charges under 18 usc 242.
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Lee asked if he was aware in FY19 only 27 out of every 100,000 charges involved charges under 18 usc 242.
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Lee said it was not Barr's priority to bring these cases, instead it was letting Stone and Manafort out of jail
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Brace yourself. It's Louis Gohmert (R-TX). He has a lot of nerve they are seeming shocked by numbers of people injured or killed in "peaceful protests."
We have had 150,000 people die due to Trump's failure to protect us and show leadership due to Corona.
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We have had 150,000 people die due to Trump's failure to protect us and show leadership due to Corona.
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Gohmert said shouldn't government shut down protests during Covid spread?
Even Barr said, "no I've never considered it."
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Even Barr said, "no I've never considered it."
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Gohmert is likening protests in the streets to the 1917 Bolshevik revolution. He also referred to Mao that year, but I think he meant the May 4, 1919 movement.
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Wait. Wut? Gohmert has a law degree?
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Okay. Looks like Gohmert has Trump's list of names to hit.
We got Judge Berman. We have Bruce Orr. Christopher Wray.
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We got Judge Berman. We have Bruce Orr. Christopher Wray.
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We have Steve Cohen (D-TN) asking about someone in DOJ he wants to testify before his subcommittee
Barr: I'll talk to him about it.
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Barr: I'll talk to him about it.
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Now Cohen goes to the tear-gassing and photo-op at Lafayette Square on June 1. "The protesters were peaceful . .and the response was excessive."
When did you learn that the president was going to walk to St. John's church.
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When did you learn that the president was going to walk to St. John's church.
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Barr said he learned that afternoon.
Cohen said it was necessary to clear the park so Trump could walk.
Barr tried to interrupt to say that was not the plan.
Cohen snapped back, but it was necessary, and you said "get it done."
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Cohen said it was necessary to clear the park so Trump could walk.
Barr tried to interrupt to say that was not the plan.
Cohen snapped back, but it was necessary, and you said "get it done."
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Wowza. Cohen is covering a lot of ground here. He blamed Barr for Epstein's suicide in prison. Then he's onto the misleading summary of the Mueller report last year. I cannot keep up with him. We still have not seen the unredacted Mueller report. . .but there's more
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Now Cohen is seeking recognition for unanimous consent requests. Introducing various news columns or op-eds.
I think @RepCohen gets an award for the most efficient use of time. Head still spinning. Barely captured what he covered.
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I think @RepCohen gets an award for the most efficient use of time. Head still spinning. Barely captured what he covered.
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Niiice. Also included is letter from 80% of the faculty from GWU School of Law (Barr's alma mater). ICYMI @ProfSchooner
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Doug Collins (R-GA) claims that using the word "storm trooper" encourages violence against law enforcement.
Barr agrees when asked. That it's "possible".
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Barr agrees when asked. That it's "possible".
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Collins asks Barr whether there was a basis for investigating Flynn. Barr does not directly answer but says someone he asked concluded that there was not a basis.
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Collins is an idiot. No not even Barr thought there was a Brady violation.
Unbelievably, Barr said that the Flynn interview was "untethered to any legitimate investigation."
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Unbelievably, Barr said that the Flynn interview was "untethered to any legitimate investigation."
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I'm having a hard timing hearing Hank Johnson (D-GA). Now he took off his mask to speak. Asking Barr whether Trump is a prolific tweeter.
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Trump complained about sentencing recommendation in Stone case just hours after it was made. And hours later you filed a sentencing recommendation hours after tweet.
Barr is incredibly rude to him. Keeps dodging facts.
Barr claims, "I did not ask for a lower sentence."
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Barr is incredibly rude to him. Keeps dodging facts.
Barr claims, "I did not ask for a lower sentence."
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Rep. Johnson pushed him that the "lying prosecutors" to whom he referred made a guidelines sentence.
Barr admitted that, "It was within the guidelines" but not the policy of department.
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Barr admitted that, "It was within the guidelines" but not the policy of department.
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Is Barr raising his voice at Rep. Johnson because he's a Black man. Or is it just coincidental?
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This is brilliant questioning by @RepHankJohnson. He's raised Barr's blood pressure and his voice.
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This is rich. Oh Lord. Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO) is calling Democrats authoritarians. Claiming "Antifa" is a fascist militia of the left.
And, somehow he's also blaming the left (i.e. @BetoORourke) for wanting to take guns from Americans.
So, which is it? Violence good or bad?
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And, somehow he's also blaming the left (i.e. @BetoORourke) for wanting to take guns from Americans.
So, which is it? Violence good or bad?
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Barr is speaking oh so softly to Buck who has asked him about using RICO -- the racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations act. "But that doesn't mean that we currently have a RICO case."
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Barr asked for a recess. The acting committee chair politely said, 5 minutes?
Barr in a rude tone said, "fine."
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Barr in a rude tone said, "fine."
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During the break, I'm watching legal experts speaking with @mitchellreports on @MSNBC.
I think @GarrettHaake has his mic inside of his mask. Good idea.
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I think @GarrettHaake has his mic inside of his mask. Good idea.
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Andrea Mitchell said that that Jordan violated the committee rules by not providing 48 hours (as Nadler had noted) before introducing it, plus the editing of it "was pretty extraordinary."
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We are back, Rep. Ted Deutch is asking about Roger Stone.
Barr said it was elevated to him by Tim Shea.
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Barr said it was elevated to him by Tim Shea.
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Deutch said Shea may have been new, but worked for him 30 years ago, and was on Barr's staff and advised him on policy before he named him to Acting U.S. Attorney for the D. of. C in February.
You told ABC news he spoke to senior staff the first week he was there
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You told ABC news he spoke to senior staff the first week he was there
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Shea's memo said 7 - 9 years, but you overruled the line prosecutors.
Did an "extraordinary physical impairment" apply to Roger Stone.
Barr keeps dodging.
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Did an "extraordinary physical impairment" apply to Roger Stone.
Barr keeps dodging.
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Barr is now shouting again.
"The judge agreed with me! The judge agreed with me!"
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"The judge agreed with me! The judge agreed with me!"
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Excellent. Can you think of even one case where someone threatened the life of a witness where the government considered that to be a "technicality."
Barr is trying to say the witness said he didn't feel threatnened.
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Barr is trying to say the witness said he didn't feel threatnened.
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We have Martha Roby (R-AL) talking now.
"Do you beleive that Congress is adequately providing" state and local agencies enough money to combat child trafficking
Barr said more resources are always good, but then asked use her time to talk about the Stone sentencing.
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"Do you beleive that Congress is adequately providing" state and local agencies enough money to combat child trafficking
Barr said more resources are always good, but then asked use her time to talk about the Stone sentencing.
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Barr is getting into the weeds of sentencing calculations under the guidelines. He is misleadingly implying that only "mafiosa" get the enhancement that applied to Stone.
This is a good subject to research . . .
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This is a good subject to research . . .
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He said he wanted to leave the sentence up to the judge and not provide a recommendation.
"At the end of the day" the judge agreed with me.
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"At the end of the day" the judge agreed with me.
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Good for Roby, she's trying to re-direct his attention to child trafficking, especially online.
It's shameful that he wasted her time on defending himself instead of focusing on children. She (a Republican) has made Nadler's point
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It's shameful that he wasted her time on defending himself instead of focusing on children. She (a Republican) has made Nadler's point
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It's @RepKarenBass expresses concern about the "zero tolerance" attitude toward law enforcement. Discusses how police officers injected a young kid with ketomine. Do you know how often this drug is used to use during arrests.
Barr: No
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Barr: No
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Bass asks Barr to investigate use of force and use of Ketomine.
Barr: "I'll look into the Ketomine."
He also said under President's Executive Order he's looking into use of force
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Barr: "I'll look into the Ketomine."
He also said under President's Executive Order he's looking into use of force
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Bass compares police murder of George Floyd during his arrest for allegedly passing a counterfeit $20 bill to the nonviolent arrests of Dylan Roof (who murdered many in a church) and of James Holmes (who murdered 12 people in movie theater). Police even gave Roof burger king
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Barr said part of order is a database of police officers use of excessive force
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Bass said that after Jim Crow period the laws were not applied equally. "We do have systemic problems in our criminal justice system."
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Now it's Matt Gaetz who looks unwell, quite honestly. I hope he is getting medical attention.
On his comments, he's hitting the Trump list, saying he wants to see McCabe prosecuted.
Barr said he never said Antifa was a terrorist organization.
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On his comments, he's hitting the Trump list, saying he wants to see McCabe prosecuted.
Barr said he never said Antifa was a terrorist organization.
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Okay, nodded off for a moment. (Just kidding).
Alarming conversation between Rep. Cedric Richmond and Bill Barr about whether the election will be rigged.
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Alarming conversation between Rep. Cedric Richmond and Bill Barr about whether the election will be rigged.
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Barr said there's a "high-risk" that widescale switch to mail-in voting will lead to massive voter fraud.
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Richmond got Barr to acknowledge that African Americans are at disproportionate risk of dying from Coronavirus.
Can president contest an election because he loses?
Barr mentions Bush v. Gore. But said, when asked if it's a huge margin can he contest, "not that I'm aware."
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Can president contest an election because he loses?
Barr mentions Bush v. Gore. But said, when asked if it's a huge margin can he contest, "not that I'm aware."
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Nadler is reminding Jordan, Biggs, Johnson that they are required to wear their masks. One of them whined that they were trying to drink coffee.
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Jim Jordan asks Barr: "Would St. John's Church be standing today if you hadn't taken action?"
Barr clarified that protection happened on Sunday night.
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Barr clarified that protection happened on Sunday night.
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Jordan is hitting Trump's faves. Unmasking.
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Dear Rep. Jordan, what the president needs to hear is:
Person, Woman, Man, Camera, TV.
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Person, Woman, Man, Camera, TV.
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Barr responded to Rep. Jeffries (D-NY), that if Trump loses, he -- meaning Barr -- would leave office.
But when asked what he thinks about Trump saying he would contest election. Said, "I'm not familiar with the comments."
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But when asked what he thinks about Trump saying he would contest election. Said, "I'm not familiar with the comments."
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OMG. OMG. Really. Barr just actually blamed President Obama for the failure in coronavirus testing.
WTH
When asked what Barr thought about Trump telling Americans to inject themselves with bleach, Barr said, "That's not what I heard."
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WTH
When asked what Barr thought about Trump telling Americans to inject themselves with bleach, Barr said, "That's not what I heard."
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This line of questioning is whether Trump is doing a "superb" job managing the virus.
Barr blamed @BarackObama for letting supplies run dry. Note to self. Trump has been in office for 3 years.
Also note: Barr is a joke.
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Barr blamed @BarackObama for letting supplies run dry. Note to self. Trump has been in office for 3 years.
Also note: Barr is a joke.
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We have Rep. Biggs. I am going to make some more coffee. BRB
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Barr is responding to questions about what happened before the Lafayette square event on June 1. Said 90 officers were injured. Said by Monday "it was total consensus" that "that kind of rioting" could happen so close to White House. Wanted to move perimeter
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Said the timing was that "much to my frustration" delays. Fencing had to be delivered, build up of protests.
He said "the crowd was very unruly." Claims park police made the tactical considerations.
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He said "the crowd was very unruly." Claims park police made the tactical considerations.
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Wow. Damning analogy. He is at war with civilians. Barr said that we did not invade Philippines so Douglas McArthur could take walk on the beach.
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Nice @RepSwalwell is holding Barr to his testimony at his confirmation hearing. Swapping a pardon to silence a witness would be a crime.
Asked whether he was investigating Trump for commuting the prison sentence of Roger Stone.
Barr said, no. Why should I?
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Asked whether he was investigating Trump for commuting the prison sentence of Roger Stone.
Barr said, no. Why should I?
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Good. Swalwell is telling Barr why he should investigate Trump.
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Roger Stone was in a position to expose Donald Trump's lies to Robert Mueller.
You don't read the President's Tweets?
Barr: No.
Swalwell tells him he should because there's lots of evidence in the tweets.
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You don't read the President's Tweets?
Barr: No.
Swalwell tells him he should because there's lots of evidence in the tweets.
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Wow. Barr is unfamiliar with the facts.
This is a DAMNING line of questioning.
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This is a DAMNING line of questioning.
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Took a quick break for the coffee. Now someone is asking Barr about Flynn.
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Nobody accused anyone of Treason. Who is this Sensenbrenner or McClintock?
Also this guy randomly attacks @keithellison
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Also this guy randomly attacks @keithellison
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Oh, good, @tedlieu asks about legal standard for seizing and arresting protesters.
Barr agrees arrest has to be predicated on probable cause.
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Barr agrees arrest has to be predicated on probable cause.
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💥UNBELIEVABLE. Barr refused to admit that taking someone into custody and questioning them is an arrest.
Dunaway v. NY is black letter law, Lieu says.
See SCOTUS decision here. 6-2
oyez.org/cases/1978/78-…
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Dunaway v. NY is black letter law, Lieu says.
See SCOTUS decision here. 6-2
oyez.org/cases/1978/78-…
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This is the MOST IMPORTANT part of this entire hearing. Based on this, Lieu says Deputy Director Kline admitted that there was not probable cause before a protestor was arrested.
This was an arrest of a peaceful protesters. It's unconstitutional.
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This was an arrest of a peaceful protesters. It's unconstitutional.
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Rep. @RepDLesko invites Barr to use her time to respond to Lieu's accusation.
What Barr is saying does not comport with the facts admitted to by Kline.
Barr is fighting the hypothetical
lawfareblog.com/unpacking-dhss…
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What Barr is saying does not comport with the facts admitted to by Kline.
Barr is fighting the hypothetical
lawfareblog.com/unpacking-dhss…
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Lesko is complaining that "there are more new gun owners than ever." Does the @nra know she's against guns now?
Lesko: "I have a strong track record of defending the 2nd amendment and protecting gun rights. I have consistently been endorsed by the NRA"
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Lesko: "I have a strong track record of defending the 2nd amendment and protecting gun rights. I have consistently been endorsed by the NRA"
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Lesko repeatedly mispronounced @RepJayapal's name, and when Jayapal corrected her, she mockingly repeated the correct pronunciation back to her.
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Recess for 5 minutes.
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.@mayawiley said we have not heard from Democrats that DOJ hid data from Congress last year that domestic terror is largely from white supremacists and that funding got cut for addressing domestic terror. So lots of questions on Antifa, but no counter. Tennis match now.
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Great panel on @MSNBC. Matt Miller praised Swalwell for cornering Barr on the Stone sentencing and Goldman did as well as Ted Deutch.
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We are about to begin. Barr is seated at the witness table again.
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Good. @matthewamiller points out that the damning Trump tweet about Stone keeping quiet was part of the Mueller report.
In other words, how could Barr not know about it?
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In other words, how could Barr not know about it?
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Another questions legal team on MSNBC mention is need to ask Barr about firing of U.S. Attorney for SDNY, Geoffrey Berman and why he lied when he said Berman agreed to step down.
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Also, helpful commentary on Barr earlier saying he had not looked into moving election day:
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Not a good for Barr
Cicilline: "Is it ever appropriate for the president or presidential candidate to accept or solicit foreign assistance of any kind in an election."
First Barr said, it depends on what kind of assisance. Then he said no after Cicilline repeated it
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Cicilline: "Is it ever appropriate for the president or presidential candidate to accept or solicit foreign assistance of any kind in an election."
First Barr said, it depends on what kind of assisance. Then he said no after Cicilline repeated it
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"Protesters are good," said Barr. He also agreed that it's never appropriate to use force against peaceful protesters.
Yet, Cicilline describes electeds including mayor of Portland being tear gassed.
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Yet, Cicilline describes electeds including mayor of Portland being tear gassed.
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Cicilline: "Do you think it's ever appropriate to use tear gas on peaceful protesters."
Barr: "To disperse an unlawful assembly" and he said, "unfortunately sometimes peaceful protesters" are affected."
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Barr: "To disperse an unlawful assembly" and he said, "unfortunately sometimes peaceful protesters" are affected."
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Cicilline asked whether veteran Chris David asked to be pepper sprayed and beaten, have bones broken by peacefully protesting.
Barr won't answer but said the IG is looking into it.
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Barr won't answer but said the IG is looking into it.
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Every suffragette, abolitionist, etc. was a protester. "One of America's most beloved protesters" John Lewis lies in state
Cicilline: "Black lives matter" is what these protests are about and shows video of peaceful protesters in Portland including moms in yellow shirts
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Cicilline: "Black lives matter" is what these protests are about and shows video of peaceful protesters in Portland including moms in yellow shirts
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This is a montage of images of peaceful protesters
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Now Jim Jordan is actually LYING. He claims he has never been in a hearing where the witness cannot respond to questions and accusations. It's a complete LIE.
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This bozo calling in from home is whining about the extra 2 1/2 minutes Cicilline took to show his short video. Obviously he missed the 9 minute video Jordan showed.
Oh. Another name to hit. Carter Page. LOL. Drink more coffee.
This might be Steube in Florida.
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Oh. Another name to hit. Carter Page. LOL. Drink more coffee.
This might be Steube in Florida.
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Since Jim Jordan is talking, I'd like to share more from people who say he knew about the abuse
nbcnews.com/news/us-news/r…
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nbcnews.com/news/us-news/r…
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Glad to hear @RepRaskin. He asks whether the purpose of releasing tear gas on 2,000 non-violent protesters was to protect the church?
Barr said no. That on Sunday they protected church.
So, that means, gassed them on Monday, to in his words, "expand the perimeter."
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Barr said no. That on Sunday they protected church.
So, that means, gassed them on Monday, to in his words, "expand the perimeter."
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We lose more than 1,000 Americans every day. But Raskin said, you called the public health leadership "superb" and
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Raskin said Barr supportedTrump to stop public health orders. And joined litigation against governors of VA and MI. He showed this as evidence that he sided with these armed protesters.
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"You worked to disarm the states from the only weapon" we have, public health orders.
Bless Raskin! This is so, so good.
Barr is defensive: "We were not taking down public health orders."
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Bless Raskin! This is so, so good.
Barr is defensive: "We were not taking down public health orders."
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I cannot hear who this is. Whomever it is gave his time to Barr.
Barr is said they were "treating religion worse" than other gatherings.
This is so, so STUPID. If public health orders SAVE LIVES, then it helps churches if the orders are stronger on them.
WTH.
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Barr is said they were "treating religion worse" than other gatherings.
This is so, so STUPID. If public health orders SAVE LIVES, then it helps churches if the orders are stronger on them.
WTH.
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Taking this moment to thank @johncusack for retweeting me today. Huge fan of your work, especially Grosse Pointe Blank. Also, please say hello to your sister Joan. I LOVE her too.
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Person talking now, reading from notebook, hitting those Trump investigation topics.
So WEIRD that when this congressman is being vague and not mentioning names, Barr has instant recall and knows what he's talking about.
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So WEIRD that when this congressman is being vague and not mentioning names, Barr has instant recall and knows what he's talking about.
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Jim Jordan seems to forget that protests are outside in the open air, not indoors.
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Love @RepJayapal who reminds us of the purpose of the protests, an awakening.
Shows this photo. Asked was it appropriate to pepper spray, tear gas and beat peaceful protesters
Barr said no tear gas was used
Jayapal said this is semantic. This has been proven false
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Shows this photo. Asked was it appropriate to pepper spray, tear gas and beat peaceful protesters
Barr said no tear gas was used
Jayapal said this is semantic. This has been proven false
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This is SO GOOD. Jayapal shows this slide about how Trump "activated" Barr to dominate peaceful protesters who oppose the president.
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Thank you Jayapal. Barr actually says he was not aware that the protesters called for the Governor to be lynched, shot and beheaded.
Said he did nothing when they wore swastikas and carried fire arms into the capitol, "you didn't put pepper balls on those protesters."
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Said he did nothing when they wore swastikas and carried fire arms into the capitol, "you didn't put pepper balls on those protesters."
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When black people protest police brutality and systemic racism then you forceably remove them. But you leave right ring extremists alone.
"The Michigan authorities can handle" it, he said.
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"The Michigan authorities can handle" it, he said.
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It's Guy Reschenthaler turn, but Barr asked to have time to respond. He keeps going back to June 1. "I don't remember Captain DeMarco . . even being close to the discussions going on."
Barr said we were moving the perimeter. He said "I saw myself projectiles being thrown"
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Barr said we were moving the perimeter. He said "I saw myself projectiles being thrown"
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Oh, good. It's @RepValDemings. She says of the victims' of gun violence, "those lives do matter."
But she said don't we think we should hold police officers to a higher standard. He said yes.
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But she said don't we think we should hold police officers to a higher standard. He said yes.
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Demings says she sees an alarming pattern that he keeps removing US Attorneys who investigate the president and those close to him.
When you said Geoffrey Berman was stepping down, had he told you he was?
Barr: No.
Boom
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When you said Geoffrey Berman was stepping down, had he told you he was?
Barr: No.
Boom
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Have you in anyway attempted to interfere in investigation in SDNY
He said he has "raised questions" and did not interfere.
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He said he has "raised questions" and did not interfere.
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Deming said did you read that a sitting president can be criminally investigated as per Mueller report
Barr said yes.
Demning said you removed Berman
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Barr said yes.
Demning said you removed Berman
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When asked about Trump, Barr said, "he has never asked me, directed me, pressured me to do anything in a criminal case."
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Good finish here from Deming: "The president has made a mockery of the Department of Justice, and as the nation's top cop no one should care about that more than you."
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We have Kelly Armstrong (R-NC). His brow is furrowed and his face is a little sweaty. This might be a good time to say that Bill Barr looks healthy today and quite comfortable in his dissembling.
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Now we are discussing the census and the president's memo asking to exclude undocumented residents from counting. This is unconstitutional, says Luis Corera.
Barr denies that this is unconstitutional
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Barr denies that this is unconstitutional
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So, this is a contradiction. Barr agrees to study a situation in Wisconsin. Yet, when confronted by @RepJayapal about the right-wing white supremacists in Michigan he said it's up to the states to handle that.
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Barr admits that he is using what he calls "common sense" and not evidence to suggest massive voter fraud would follow mail-in ballots
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She asks whether he donated more than $730,000 to Republican candidates, even though Barr previously criticized prosecutors for making campaign contributions
Barr: "Are you surprised that I am a Republican?"
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Barr: "Are you surprised that I am a Republican?"
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Very sad stories from Rep. Garcia about how the president's friends got out of prison (Manafort) due to fear of Covid vs. the ordinary people such as women died in childbirth in prison
Barr said no one from Justice involved
(Yet Bureau of Prisons knows without asking).
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Barr said no one from Justice involved
(Yet Bureau of Prisons knows without asking).
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Voices raised between Rep. Neguse and Barr.
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Barr is trying to say "stepping down" is broad enough to including being fired.
I disagree. Being pushed out is what was happening. Or forced out.
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I disagree. Being pushed out is what was happening. Or forced out.
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Rep. McBath is asking about Barr assisting Trump in destroying the Affordable Care Act.
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She said, "you are risking the lives of millions" and that Americans will not be covered for pre-existing conditions.
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Barr said, "I am a lawyer. I'm not in charge of health care policy."
This is a bullshit answer. He doesn't have to keep his job if he does not like this policy.
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This is a bullshit answer. He doesn't have to keep his job if he does not like this policy.
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McBath said there were 23,000 attempts in March were fire arm sales were blocked. And, it's a crime for anyone to lie in an attempt to get a fire arm.
Barr said he wants to pursue these "lie and try" cases.
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Barr said he wants to pursue these "lie and try" cases.
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Rep. Nadler to Rep Jordan: "The gentleman's rudeness is not recognized."
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I think this is Greg Stanton (D-AZ) who called Barr Donald Trump's "fixer."
You have filed just one voting rights case.
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You have filed just one voting rights case.
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Stanton said that Barr told a reporter that the voters would be the ones to referee the elections.
Barr was not sure of the context.
Here it is: nytimes.com/2020/06/01/mag…
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Barr was not sure of the context.
Here it is: nytimes.com/2020/06/01/mag…
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It's been around 4 1/2 hours of this . . .
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Stanton asked will the DOJ get involved in a contested election.
Barr said, "I'll follow the law."
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Barr said, "I'll follow the law."
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Barr asked for a five minute break.
Nadler said no
Barr, "I waited an hour for you. I haven't had lunch, I would like to take a break."
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Nadler said no
Barr, "I waited an hour for you. I haven't had lunch, I would like to take a break."
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Nadler agreed to a recess.
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We are back. It's @RepDean asking questions about June 1st in Lafayette Square. She showed this photo which contains a time line from 6:10 p.m. when Barr was seen in the square to 7:01.
She asks was this timing a coincidence?
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She asks was this timing a coincidence?
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Dean said "we'll assume that was all a coincidence."
"The time is mine."
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"The time is mine."
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She said Barr said "it's not a chemical irritant."
Then he said, "everything's a chemical."
"Reclaiming my time." She posted this
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Then he said, "everything's a chemical."
"Reclaiming my time." She posted this
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"Please refrain from interrupting me."
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"Have you begun an investigation into the use of excessive force in Lafayette Square."
Barr: "The IG is investigating."
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Barr: "The IG is investigating."
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Regarding pepper balls, Barr said, "I think it's a very important non-lethal option for rioters."
Barr: "When people resist law enforcement they are not peaceful."
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Barr: "When people resist law enforcement they are not peaceful."
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We have @RepDMP asking questions. She likened the way Barr's DOJ (his US federal police) is behaving to Venezuela
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She said, "how do you restore the trust in our democracy?"
Barr said "I think the force is being deployed against rioters or when protesters are not following police direction."
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Barr said "I think the force is being deployed against rioters or when protesters are not following police direction."
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It's now @RepEscobar's turn to ask question. I think she will be the last committee member to ask questions.
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Escobar: "Does the Constitution say that only citizens should be counted in the census?"
Barr: No (But then he said the framers would not have confronted the issue as there were "no illegal aliens.")
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Barr: No (But then he said the framers would not have confronted the issue as there were "no illegal aliens.")
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One personal takeaway from this hearing. I really truly hope my husband doesn't pick up the "I'm reclaiming my time" expression as I am a big interrupter.
cc @MichaelKuch
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cc @MichaelKuch
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Rep. Escobar asked about the Transgender policy. Barr dodged it a bit.
Barr: "I don't pay attention to the tweets unless they are brought to my attention.?
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Barr: "I don't pay attention to the tweets unless they are brought to my attention.?
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She concludes by implying that his loyalty to Donald Trump and not to the Constitution.
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Before adjourning hearing and gaveling out, Chair Nadler responded to Jordan's earlier question as to whether the video from @RepDMP was of Venezuela or the U.S.. Nadler said, "that's the point."
Gavel.
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Gavel.
205/205
That should say speaking, not speaker
