House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) walked away from a press conference after being questioned about whether any House Republicans communicated with rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6.
One reporter asked McCarthy on Thursday, “Do you think it’s a conflict of interest for members to be voting on a commission that they might have to be potentially witnesses for, and provide information on?”
He replied, “No because who knows what they’re going to do on the commission? I don’t think so.”
Another reporter chimed in asking McCarthy, “Are you absolutely certain none of your members were in any communication with any of the people who stormed Capitol Hill?”
McCarthy fired back, “I don’t believe that they are but thank you for the question. Everybody have a nice day.”
Watch part of McCarthy’s press conference below:
Kevin McCarthy doesn't answer a question about whether he's absolutely sure that no House Republicans communicated with January 6 insurrectionists pic.twitter.com/pntSzt7mIJ
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 20, 2021
McCarthy released a statement on Tuesday saying he could not support the legislation establishing a commission to investigate the events that took place at the Capitol, as IJR reported.
The House minority leader was also asked on Thursday if he would be willing to testify before a commission about a conversation he had with former President Donald Trump amid the violence.
“Sure, next question,” he responded.
Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) told ABC News she “absolutely” believes he should testify, adding, “I wouldn’t be surprised if he were subpoenaed. I think he very clearly and said publicly that he’s got information about the president’s state of mind that day. The elements of that commission are exactly as they should be.”
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) announced on Wednesday he also opposes a commission, as IJR reported.
“After careful consideration, I’ve made the decision to oppose the House Democrats’ slanted and unbalanced proposal for another commission to study the events of January the 6th,” McConnell said.
The House passed legislation to establish a commission on Wednesday in a 252 to 175 vote.