Jamie Raskin Defends Colleague Accused of Texting Jeffrey Epstein

Opposition to Censure Resolution

• 🎯 Representative Jamie Raskin rises in opposition to a resolution proposing disciplinary censure against Representative Stacey Plaskett.
• 💡 Raskin argues the resolution is a pathetic effort to distract and divert attention from the majority's failure to disclose information related to Jeffrey Epstein.
• 📣 He emphasizes his side supports complete disclosure of information related to Epstein's child sex trafficking ring, regardless of political affiliation.

Lack of Alleged Misconduct

• ⚖️ Raskin points out that the resolution alleges no misconduct, no violation of the Constitution, federal law, state law, or House ethics rules.
• 📌 Despite this, the resolution seeks to censure Plaskett and remove her from her committee.
• 🗣️ He describes Plaskett as a distinguished former federal prosecutor and diligent public servant.

Due Process and Accountability

• 📜 Raskin highlights the importance of due process, stating it protects freedoms against arbitrary government power.
• ⚖️ He contrasts the lack of due process for Plaskett with the due process afforded to Ghislaine Maxwell and Donald Trump, who had rights to counsel, hearings, and jury trials.
• 🔍 The resolution is based on a newspaper article alleging Plaskett took a lawful, though perhaps ill-advised, phone call from a constituent.

Guilt by Association and Rush to Judgment

• 🤝 Raskin questions whether a phone call with Epstein should equate to guilt, calling it "guilt by association" or "collective guilt."
• 🚫 He notes that an amendment to refer the matter to an ethics committee for a real hearing was rejected, indicating a desire to rush to judgment for political headlines.
• ❓ Raskin challenges the other side to consider the principle behind this rush to judge, asking if anyone on their side who had a phone call with Epstein should also be censured.