House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans are locked in a dispute over the direction of a new investigation into the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. Johnson is pushing for a narrower focus, excluding probes into the former January 6 committee—led by ex-Rep. Liz Cheney—and security preparedness at the Capitol. In contrast, GOP Rep. Barry Loudermilk, who is leading the investigation, favors a broader mandate, a position reportedly supported by some White House officials.
The disagreement has stalled the launch of Loudermilk’s select subcommittee, announced in January. Johnson’s proposed scope would limit the investigation to topics like the Department of Justice’s handling of January 6 cases, the identification of the pipe bomber near party headquarters, and the role of FBI informants in Washington, DC, on January 6. These areas are already being examined by Trump allies within the DOJ, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel.
The internal conflict reflects broader divisions within the GOP over how to address January 6. While some Republicans, like Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia, support continuing the investigation, others, like Rep. Juan Ciscomani of Arizona, are unaware of the effort, highlighting its lack of priority across the party.
Johnson’s reluctance to fully embrace the investigation aligns with his broader approach to January 6. He has yet to install a plaque honoring Capitol Police officers who responded to the attack, despite a 2022 law mandating its placement.
The impasse underscores the ongoing tension within the GOP as it navigates the legacy of January 6, with Trump’s continued focus on the issue ensuring it remains a contentious topic.
For more political updates, visit DC Brief.
