In a surprising turn of events, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff of California was saved from any measure of accountability for his part in the Russia collusion hoax by 20 Republicans who came to his defense on Wednesday.
The resolution, introduced by Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, sought to censure and terminate Schiff from his position.
Luna expressed her disappointment, stating, “It is the obligation of House Leadership to back up this motion for the American people and hold this feckless man accountable.”
Luna’s resolution also proposed a hefty $16 million fine, representing half the cost of the Robert Mueller probe, which concluded that there was no evidence of collusion between the 2016 Trump campaign and Russia.
House Resolution 437 cited Schiff’s abuse of trust by promoting evidence of collusion that has been discredited by reports from Special Counsel Robert Mueller, Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz, and Special Counsel Durham.
The resolution was ultimately tabled after a contentious 225-196-7 vote.
Notably, 20 Republicans sided with the Democrats in favor of tabling the motion.
Among the Republicans who voted to table the resolution were Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota, Lori Chavez-DeRemer of Oregon, Juan Ciscomani of Arizona, Tom Cole of Oklahoma, Warren Davidson and Mike Turner of Ohio, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Kay Granger of Texas, Garret Graves of Louisiana, Thomas Kean Jr. of New Jersey, Kevin Kiley, Young Kim, Tom McClintock, Jay Obernolte, and David Valadao of California, Mike Lawler and Mark Molinaro of New York, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Mike Simpson of Idaho, and Steve Womack of Arkansas.
Additionally, five other Republicans opted not to oppose tabling the resolution, including Representatives Neal Dunn of Florida, Tony Gonzales of Texas, and Patrick McHenry of North Carolina, who did not cast their votes.
Representatives Darrell Issa of California and George Santos of New York voted “Present.” On the Democratic side, all voting members supported tabling the measure.
In response to the outcome, Schiff expressed surprise, commending the courage of Republican members who stood up against what he referred to as the “crazy MAGA folks.”
Schiff remarked, “I’m astounded by the vote frankly; it was basically almost one in 10 Republicans voted against this resolution.”
Undeterred by the setback, Luna took to Twitter to emphasize her commitment to pursuing Schiff’s censure. She wrote, “So there is no confusion (as some did not accurately read the bill) I will be filing a privileged motion to censure & send Schiff to ethics for investigation. See you next week Adam.”
A Twitter exchange between Luna and Representative Massie shed light on differing perspectives within the Republican party.
Massie expressed his reluctance to support a $16 million fine, citing constitutional concerns.
Luna clarified that the fine was a suggested amount that could be paid using campaign funds.
As the dust settles, the clash between Republican colleagues and the controversial California representative serves as a stark reminder of the deep divisions within Congress and the country.