White House Warns Garcia Over Planned Oversight Probes

White House counsel Will Scharf warned incoming House Oversight Committee chairman Robert Garcia that planned Democratic investigations could become unlawful or criminal if they lack a legitimate legislative purpose or use subpoenas to intimidate officials. Garcia rejected the warning, saying Congress has independent authority to investigate and would not be deterred.

Scharf’s letter, dated November 9 and made public two days later, argued that Congress may not use investigations to punish people or exercise powers reserved for prosecutors and courts. He wrote that threats intended to drive executive branch officials from public service, or processes designed to instill fear, may cross into criminal conduct. Unlawful subpoenas intended to deprive people of constitutional rights, he said, could warrant further investigation.

The letter was addressed to Garcia, a California Democrat expected to lead the committee when Democrats take control of the House in January 2027. Scharf cited Garcia’s election-night message to the administration to “Lawyer up” and other lawmakers’ comments about inquiries and hearings. He said those remarks indicated a possible intent to harass officials...