Summary
A new part added to a bill meant to end the government shutdown has upset many Republicans. This part lets senators sue the federal government for up to $500,000 over phone searches related to the January 6 investigation. Both Democrats and Republicans are unhappy because they feel it gives special legal rights to certain lawmakers.
Key Facts
- A provision was added last-minute to a bill to stop the government shutdown.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune introduced this provision.
- It allows certain senators to sue the government for $500,000 over phone record searches.
- These searches are tied to investigations into the January 6 Capitol riot.
- The FBI had subpoenaed phone records of eight senators over calls near the time of the riot.
- Both political parties are upset about this provision, saying it is unfair.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly disagrees with the provision.
