“As history is our guide, Democrats can drag out this fight, undercutting the credibility of the Trump administration, all the way to the 2020 election.” – Chad Pergram

The House Ways and Means Committee Chairman just got bad news on their request for President Trump’s personal and business tax returns. Democrat Eric Swalwell immediately called for contempt charges for Treasury Secretary Mnuchin and Attorney General Barr. The Democrats just did a big pivot from the Mueller Report to Trump taxes. They believe they can damage the president more by dragging out the tax battle.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin’s letter (see below) to the Committee said the request lacked a “legitimate legislative purpose.”

“As you have recognized, the Committee’s request is unprecedented, and it presents serious constitutional questions, the resolution of which may have lasting consequences for all taxpayers.” 

The Justice Department advised Mnuchin on the decision to reject the request saying the department was “not authorized to disclose the requested returns and return information:

“THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE HAS INFORMED US…”

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“The Department of Justice has informed us that it intends to memorialize its advice in a published legal opinion as soon as practicable. Out of respect for the deadlines previously set by the Committee, and consistent with our commitment to a prompt response, I am informing you now that the Department may not lawfully fulfill the Committee’s request.

Contempt of Congress has a rocky history but the Democrats seem ready for the battle over Trump’s taxes.

The Democrats have obviously made the big pivot from the Mueller investigation nothingburger to Trump’s tax returns.

 

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