Rep. Jordan's Refusal to Cooperate with Capitol Attack Probe: The Inherent Risks and Potential Consequences

Rep. Jordan, a member of the U.S. Republican Party, has been under scrutiny for his refusal to cooperate with the Capitol attack probe. This article delves into the reasons behind his refusal and the potential legal and political consequences he might face if he continues to withhold information.

Background and Reasons for Refusal

As a participant in the events surrounding the January 6th Capitol riot, Rep. Jordan is presumed to hide the extent of his involvement in the insurrection/coup planning. His refusal to cooperate stems from the committee's refusal to seat two members nominated by the House Minority Leader. This action led to concerns that the committee's authority may be in question, prompting further resistance from Rep. Jordan and others.

Rep. Jordan's stance is not merely symbolic. It reflects a complex internal battle between his loyalty to former President Trump and the potential legal and political ramifications of revealing his own involvement. This internal conflict is further complicated by the recent legal actions taken by the Department of Justice.

The Growing Legal Escalation

The Department of Justice has charged eleven insurrectionists with seditious conspiracy, a serious federal offense outlined in 18 US Code 2384. The charge of seditious conspiracy, as defined, involves conspiring to overthrow the government of the United States or any state government through force or other unlawful means. This move signifies a more aggressive stance from the DOJ in pursuing accountability for the January 6th riot.

Conspiracy to overthrow the government, as per 18 US Code 2385, imposes stringent penalties and disqualifies the accused from employment with the federal government for five years post-conviction. The gravity of this charge cannot be overstated, as it presents a significant risk for Rep. Jordan should he be implicated.

Rep. Jordan's past actions also provide a precedent for his hesitation. As an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State University, he withold knowledge of criminal sexual assaults against wrestlers under his charge. This prior inaction underscores the fear and potential legal jeopardy he might face if he were to come clean about his role in the Capitol attack.

Potential Legal and Political Consequences

Given the escalating legal climate, it is highly likely that Rep. Jordan is seeking advice from legal counsel on how to proceed. The evolving nature of the investigation, influenced by the testimony of Peter Navarro, demonstrates the shifting landscape of the probe. Navarro's proactive cooperation might provide a template for those willing to publicly accept responsibility and negotiate lesser charges.

The long-term political impact for Rep. Jordan cannot be overlooked. His continued refusal to cooperate risks further eroding public trust and, potentially, his political career. Moreover, the delay in appearing before the 1/6 committee is a strategic calculation, even if it is driven by a lack of knowledge about the committee's already gathered evidence and a fear of being caught in a lie.

Conclusion and Call to Action

As the investigation into the January 6th Capitol attack progresses, the actions and decisions of Rep. Jordan will continue to be scrutinized. The inherent legal and political risks associated with refusing to cooperate cannot be ignored. It is imperative for all involved to understand the potential consequences and the necessity of accountability in national security matters. The American public deserves transparency and justice regarding the events of that fateful day.