House Republicans' Censure Attempt Against Del. Plaskett Fails Amid "Backroom Deal" Claims, Democrats Pass Epstein Transparency Act
A Republican effort to censure Del. Stacey Plaskett over Jeffrey Epstein texts failed, sparking allegations of a "backroom deal." Democrats subsequently passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, pushing for full document release.
Overview
House Republicans attempted to censure Democratic Del. Stacey Plaskett for texting with Jeffrey Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing, where she was gathering information.
The censure vote against Del. Plaskett failed by a narrow margin of 209-214, with several Republicans crossing party lines to oppose the measure.
Following the failed vote, House Republicans alleged a "backroom deal" was made to protect Democrats from censure, raising questions about political maneuvering.
Democrats successfully advanced legislation, leading to the House passing the Epstein Files Transparency Act to ensure the release of all related documents.
Del. Plaskett defended her interactions, stating she was unaware of Epstein's federal investigation, while the broader controversy highlights calls for transparency.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally by presenting factual information about the House vote against censuring Stacey Plaskett. They detail the vote count, provide context for Plaskett's communication with Jeffrey Epstein, and include her defense without editorializing. The reporting also includes related legislative developments, maintaining an objective tone throughout.
Sources (24)
FAQ
House Republicans attempted to censure Delegate Stacey Plaskett because newly released documents showed she was texting with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing, which they claimed reflected discreditably on the House of Representatives and involved inappropriate coordination with Epstein.
The censure vote against Delegate Plaskett failed narrowly with a vote of 209-214, as several Republicans crossed party lines to oppose the measure.
After the vote failed, House Republicans alleged that a 'backroom deal' was made to protect Democrats from censure, raising questions about possible political maneuvering to block the condemnation of Delegate Plaskett.
Democrats passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation aimed at ensuring the full release of all documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, promoting transparency about the case and related congressional actions.
Delegate Plaskett defended her interactions by stating she was unaware of Epstein’s federal investigation at the time and explained that texts received during the hearing came from various sources, including Epstein, as part of efforts to gather information and support her work as a former prosecutor.
History
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