These are the Republicans who voted for the bill
Prominent Republicans have come out against legislation that would establish an independent commission to investigate the Jan. 6 insurrection at the US Capitol.
In criticizing the legislation, Sen. John Cornyn of Texas suggested the investigation would likely push well into 2022, an election year, which would score political points for the Democrats.
Asked by CNN’s Manu Raju if he was concerned that the investigation could drag out into the midterm election year, Cornyn said that he was.
“Well, part of the concern is that’s the plan,” Cornyn answered. “That’s Pelosi’s plan.”
Asked again if he was concerned about the commission dragging out until the middle of next year, Cornyn said, “(t)hat would be the Democrats’ dream.” Cornyn also expressed concern the investigation would be delayed as similar investigations are being conducted by the Justice Department.
Facts First: While we can’t predict what Democrats may do in the future, the current bill requires the commission to finish its investigation by the end of 2021. The House bill would require the commission to be completely terminated by the end of February 2022 at the latest.
According to the bill, a final report from the commission to the President and Congress would be required “not later than December 31, 2021” and the commission would be terminated “upon the expiration of the 60-day period which begins on the date on which the Commission submits the final report.”
Asked about those time limits, Cornyn said he doesn’t think they’re practical, saying, “That may be aspirational, but as a practical matter, I don’t think it could wrap up this year.”
The 60-day period gives time for the commission to wrap up administrative tasks like distributing the report and providing testimonies to congressional committees.
Cornyn told CNN that he has not yet decided how he would vote on the legislation.