Conservative lawyer Eastman says he will defy subpoena from committee Jan
In the December 1 letter, Eastman attorney Charles Burnham wrote to Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, that answering the committee’s questions could expose Eastman to legal risk. physical.
“Dr Eastman fears that any statements he makes under this subpoena will be used to investigate crimes against him,” Burnham wrote.
He continued: “While Dr Eastman categorically denies committing any illegal acts, he remains concerned that the information requested could be used against him in court. “
The committee declined to comment on Eastman’s letter. His attorney did not respond to CNN’s request for comment.
Eastman confirmed Friday on Steve Bannon’s podcast that he sent the committee a letter notifying him of his intention not to cooperate with the subpoena, citing a series of legal arguments, including the right to his to invoke the Fifth Amendment.
“My legal team wrote a letter together in response to the subpoena request, explaining all the reasons why I would assert my Fifth Amendment privileges, not to testify. and did not present all of these documents,” Eastman told Bannon.
The House Select Committee investigating the January 6 attack on the US Capitol has subpoenaed Eastman for impeachment and filed documents related to the investigation. Eastman is scheduled to appear before the committee on December 8.
In addition to failing to respond to questions by invoking the Fifth Amendment, Eastman stated on the Bannon podcast that the partisan composition of the committee and its organization made it invalid, and therefore he cooperation is not required.
“I mean, this is the most far-reaching violation of First Amendment and Fourth Amendment rights I’ve ever seen,” Eastman said.