Senate Republicans Face Backlash Over Controversial J6 Payout Bid

URGENT UPDATE: Senate Republicans are facing intense backlash over a controversial provision that would allow them to sue the government for compensation related to the Jan. 6, 2021 investigation. This measure, which could result in payouts of $500,000 to senators whose phone records were collected, is drawing swift condemnation from Democrats and is at risk of being repealed.

JUST ANNOUNCED: Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) slammed the proposal, stating it “stinks like sh––” and is part of why many Americans harbor disdain for politicians. This outcry follows the Senate’s passage of the provision on November 10, included in a bill aimed at reopening the government after a historic shutdown.

The provision, directed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), would allow senators like Ted Cruz (R-TX) to seek compensation for what they claim is governmental overreach during Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Cruz characterized the situation as “Joe Biden’s Watergate,” arguing for stronger protections against perceived DOJ overreach.

However, the measure has sparked outrage across party lines. Last week, House Republicans unanimously voted to repeal the provision, reflecting a significant shift in sentiment among lawmakers. “It’s stinky,” Luján reiterated, emphasizing the potential financial implications—”arguably millions of dollars for eight senators” if the measure remains intact.

Democrats are currently rallying to ensure the measure is stripped from upcoming budget bills. Luján, speaking at the Capitol ahead of the Thanksgiving recess, commended his colleagues for swiftly addressing what he labeled “garbage.” He urged for transparency regarding why Republican senators are seeking payouts when other lawmakers, like their Pennsylvania counterparts Mike Kelly and Scott Perry, have been overlooked.

The sentiment among Democrats is clear. “It’s outrageous that people would put into the bill essentially a check for themselves for up to $500,000,” stated Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). He committed to working diligently to overturn the provision.

Republican senators are now reportedly divided on how to amend the measure in light of its rejection by the House. While some, like Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), acknowledged a lack of awareness regarding Thune’s provision, others remain resolute in their defense of it. Capito stated, “The substance of it… I don’t argue with, but we’ll talk about it next week.”

As this drama unfolds, the urgent question remains: Will Senate Republicans be able to salvage this contentious provision, or will bipartisan pressure force its removal? Lawmakers are gearing up for heated discussions in the coming days, making it clear that the fallout from this proposal is far from over.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.