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DHS Pushes Back Against House Democrats’ Call for Chad Wolf To Testify

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced its rejection of House Democrats’ call for acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf to appear before a security oversight panel following the release of a whistleblower…

Meaghan EllisSep 12, 20203 min read

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She went on to not that President Donald Trump just officially nominated Wolf on September 10. Spivey also noted that as “acting” DHS secretary, it is not customary for someone in Wolf’s position to testify until after he is officially confirmed.

The letter added, “From that moment onward, the Acting Secretary became unavailable to testify before Congress on matters unrelated to his nomination and will regain the ability to do so when the Senate completes the confirmation process.”

“This Presidential nomination obviates any concern that the Acting Secretary’s declining to testify at the Worldwide Threats hearing was premature, conjectural or speculative,” the letter adds.

Spivey also reiterated that Wolf has a right to “abstain from testifying” as she described some of the issues House Democrats have raised concerns about as “unrelated” to the nomination.

“Second, the right of a President’s nominee to abstain from testifying on matters unrelated to his or her nomination while such a nomination is pending is an unwritten rule honored by Chairmen from both sides of the aisle for many decades,” the letter reads.

Thompson fired back with critical remarks in response to the DHS’s letter and Wolf’s refusal to testify.

“Nineteen years after the attacks of 9/11, we continue to face grave threats to the homeland. From the coronavirus pandemic to the rise of right-wing extremism to ongoing election interference, there are urgent threats requiring our attention,” the Mississippi Democratic lawmaker said.

He added, “Mr. Wolf’s refusal to testify – thereby evading congressional oversight at this critical time – is especially troubling given the serious matters facing the Department and the Nation.”