Rep. Turner: Speaker Johnson to Handle ‘Improper’ Actions by Committee
TL/DR –
House Intelligence Committee Chairman, Rep. Mike Turner, asserts that Speaker Mike Johnson would intervene in any “improper” behavior after appointing two controversial Trump allies, Reps. Scott Perry and Ronny Jackson, to the committee. Turner stated Johnson has committed to these individuals adhering to the rules and that both appointees have military experience and have had access to classified information before, without any known mishandling. Perry, previously under FBI investigation concerning the overturning of the 2020 election, claimed his intent is to oversee “not blind obedience to some facets of our Intel Community,” while Jackson, demoted after allegations of inappropriate conduct, has constituents who reportedly believe his issues are resolved.
Controversy over Trump Allies Appointed to House Intelligence Committee
Rep. Mike Turner, House Intelligence Committee Chairman, anticipates Speaker Mike Johnson to intervene in the event of any “improper” behavior following the appointment of two contentious Trump allies to the committee. “He’s going to keep an eye on the situation,” Turner stated on “Face the Nation,” adding that Johnson will demonstrate leadership if needed.
Speaker Johnson appointed hardline Republicans Reps. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania and Ronny Jackson of Texas to the influential House Intelligence Committee earlier this month. This decision ignited controversy, as some view these lawmakers’ tarnished records as potential conflicts of interest with the committee’s significant role in national security and foreign affairs.
Commitment to Following Rules
Despite the backlash, Turner, an Ohio Republican, claimed that the intelligence community indicated no immediate issue. He pointed out that the Speaker, who has met with the committee, is committed to Perry and Jackson adhering to the rules.
“Both of them have military experience and have had access to classified information before, with no reports of mishandling,” Turner stated.
Background Check
Jackson, a former White House physician, was demoted by the Navy in 2022 following a Pentagon watchdog investigation that confirmed unethical conduct allegations. The report outlined Jackson’s misuse of alcohol while providing medical care to former Presidents Obama and Trump, along with allegations of disparaging subordinates.
Perry, formerly of the House Freedom Caucus, had his phone confiscated in 2022 by the FBI during an investigation into the 2020 election overturn effort. Post-appointment, Perry criticized the committee, promising “actual oversight” instead of blind obedience to some Intel Community facets that frequently misuse their powers.
Looking Forward
Turner affirmed Perry’s apology, although he mentioned that such statements are undesirable for someone joining a committee dedicated to national security. He believes Perry will appreciate his role in national security work once he joins the committee.
On Jackson, Turner said the reports are unrelated to classified information handling, emphasizing his military background and the belief of his constituents that those issues are resolved.
“We’ll be working with the speaker and Mr. Jackson so that he is a productive committee member,” Turner stated, adding that the speaker will enforce the rules in the event of any issues as with Mr. Perry.
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