Story perspectives

Grassley releases texts from 40 Republicans, targets Smith

7/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley released texts from lawmakers a day before Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche’s confirmation hearing.
Justice Department obtained messages from October 2020 to January 2021 during Jack Smith’s investigations.
Grassley and Senator Ron Johnson said the texts involved 40 Republicans and Vice President Mike Pence.
Assistant Attorney General Patrick Davis said Smith’s team bypassed the review, prompting Grassley to say he will hold Smith accountable before committee soon.

History

Historical Context

In February 1973 the Senate voted 77-0 to create the Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities, chaired by Sam Ervin, to probe the June 1972 Watergate break-in. The televised hearings in May-June 1973 exposed secret Oval Office tapes, leading to the House Judiciary Committee’s impeachment inquiry and Nixon’s resignation on August 9 1974. Today’s GOP-text disclosures echo that precedent of congressional scrutiny of executive communications.

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Story summary

Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley released texts from lawmakers a day before Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche’s confirmation hearing.
Justice Department obtained messages from October 2020 to January 2021 during Jack Smith’s investigations.
Grassley and Senator Ron Johnson said the texts involved 40 Republicans and Vice President Mike Pence.
Assistant Attorney General Patrick Davis said Smith’s team bypassed the review, prompting Grassley to say he will hold Smith accountable before committee soon.

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