Blanche Signals Possible Probe of Democrats

After decisive midterm gains gave Democrats control of both chambers, incoming lawmakers said they could use their subpoena power to investigate the Trump administration and businesses with government ties, including technology companies and Elon Musk. Some Democrats have also discussed impeaching administration officials. President Donald Trump ordered the Justice Department to examine what he called Democratic threats and extortion, and Attorney General Todd Blanche suggested lawmakers could face investigation or prosecution, but did not identify a specific crime or confirm that an inquiry had begun. Blanche argued some Democratic statements crossed the line from oversight, while Democrats say their investigations are part of Congress’s constitutional role. The dispute sets up a conflict over congressional oversight and the Justice Department’s role as the new Congress convenes in January.