Rep. Jim Himes Defends Rep. Stacey Plaskett Against 'Appalling' Censure Effort

Defense of Delegate Plaskett

• 🎯 Rep. Jim Himes strongly defends Delegate Stacey Plaskett against a censure effort, calling it an "appalling resolution."
• 💡 Himes emphasizes Plaskett's character, integrity, and commitment, stating he has not served with anyone of her caliber in his 17 years in the institution.
• ⚠️ The censure effort is based on a newspaper article about texts, with no evidence or due process provided.

Protecting the House Intelligence Committee

• 🛡️ Himes highlights the importance of preserving the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence from partisan attacks and "sewage."
• 🧠 He notes that efforts have been made over a decade to keep the committee immunized from toxicity, largely succeeding except for the Ukraine investigation.
• 📉 The current censure effort, driven by those unfamiliar with the committee's work, is seen as a severe blow to its ability to function effectively.

Consequences of Censure

• 💥 Removing Plaskett, a member in good standing, would inflict profound damage on the committee's essential work and oversight capabilities.
• ⚖️ Himes argues that judging a member without due process, especially based on a single article, is unjust and sets a dangerous precedent.
• 📉 Passing the resolution would undermine efforts by Republican leadership to restore the committee's intended purpose, leading to less accountable and effective intelligence oversight over time.
• 📢 Himes urges all members, especially those on the Intelligence Committee who understand its critical function, to vote no on the resolution.