In a disappointing turn of events, three Texas representatives failed to show up for a pivotal vote on H.Res.1344, a GOP-pushed resolution to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in Inherent Contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena. The resolution, which proposed a daily fine of $10,000 for non-compliance, was narrowly defeated in the House with a vote tally of 210 to 204.
Texas Republicans Dan Crenshaw and Kay Granger, along with Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee , were conspicuously absent from the vote. Their absence has raised eyebrows and sparked questions among their constituents and political observers alike.
Despite attempts by the Texas Liberty Journal, Crenshaw’s office declined to comment on his absence, stating they were “not speaking to why he didn’t vote” and refused to confirm if he was even in town. One would think that Crenshaw would be more forthcoming, considering that he is in a close race against Democrat Peter Filler in the States 2nd Congressional District on the November ballot.
Granger’s office also remained tight-lipped, offering no explanation for her absence. The 81-year-old representative is a lame duck and is not seeking re-election…thank goodness for the people of Fort Worth.
On the Democratic side, Jackson Lee’s absence has added fuel to an already contentious race for the 18th Congressional District against challenger Lana Centonze. Jackson Lee’s office indicated they were on hold for a press statement, with her chief of staff expected to address the issue. However, no response has been provided at the time of publication.
Kane, the only candidate that responded to our inquiries stated, “I certainly would have voted to hold Merrick Garland in contempt. Peter Navarro and Steve Bannon were both sent to prison for contempt setting recent precedent. Compliance with a Congressional Subpoena is not optional.”
Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna, who spearheaded H.Res.1344, remains optimistic despite the setback. “We are very confident it will pass,” Luna stated, expressing her determination to reintroduce the resolution when more Republicans are present for a vote. Her resolve highlights the ongoing battle over the audio tapes of President Biden’s interview with former special counsel Robert Hur, which the White House has shielded under executive privilege.
The resolution’s failure underscores the critical importance of every vote. With the House divided and the stakes so high, the absence of Crenshaw & Granger is a significant setback in the effort to hold Attorney General Garland accountable. Their constituents deserve answers and a commitment to unwavering representation, especially when it comes to upholding the rule of law and ensuring transparency from the highest offices in the land.
As this political drama unfolds, the Texas Liberty Journal will continue to hold our representatives accountable and keep our readers informed on the issues that matter most. Stay tuned for further updates on this and other pressing political battles.
*07/12/2024 Correction – We had previously reported that four Representatives had failed to vote. That total included Representative Lizzie Fletcher (7th District). Our reporting was based on information from the House Clerk, who has since revised the Roll Call to show that Fletcher has voted “Nay”. We have also revised the image that accompanies the article.