Rep. Jason Smith wins three-way contest for Methods and Means gavel

After Methods and Means Democrats launched former President Donald Trump’s tax returns simply earlier than the final Congress ended, Smith stated in a press release that the transfer would “perpetually change” the character of congressional oversight.

“Come January, Democrats will solely have themselves in charge for this new precedent, as they’ve now given the incoming Republican majority the clear authority to make use of instruments on the committee’s disposal to research whether or not President Biden and his household have enriched themselves off the Washington Democrats’ agenda,” he stated.

Biden and first woman Jill Biden have launched their tax returns publicly, together with their newest 2021 fillings, as have Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Douglas Emhoff.

Smith has additionally argued he has relationships all through the GOP’s 222-member convention that may assist him navigate a slim Republican majority — which already proved tough by complicating McCarthy’s speaker bid.

To get the Methods and Means gavel, a majority of the Home Republican Convention nonetheless has to approve Smith’s nomination. It’s unlikely they’d reject a choose from the steering committee, which is made up of greater than 30 members together with GOP management and representatives of various elements of the convention largely based mostly on geography. McCarthy and Majority Chief Steve Scalise, R-La., have further votes.