A chaotic Thursday night hearing in the House Oversight and Accountability Committee descended into personal attacks and racial undertones, earning a rebuke from both sides of the aisle.
The hearing, which started at 8 p.m. EDT, was already tense due to Republicans’ earlier trip to New York to attend former President Trump’s trial. Democrats claimed the hearing was “alcohol-fueled” and that Republicans returned “jacked up on Trump-style animosity.”
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The hearing aimed to consider holding Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress but quickly derailed into a discussion of Trump’s trial.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) attacked Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s (D-Texas) physical appearance, which Democrats said had racial undertones. The exchange sparked a firestorm of insults, with Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) struggling to maintain control.
Both sides criticized the tone and content of the squabbling, with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) calling it “not a good look for Congress.” Democrats argued that Republicans’ trip to New York contributed to the meeting’s collapse, while Republicans claimed Democrats also made improper comments.
The incident highlighted the deep divisions and lack of decorum in Congress, with some members calling for greater civility and accountability.
