Late Show host Stephen Colbert discussed the Congressional testimony of FBI agent Peter Strzok, who was questioned by the House Judiciary Committee about his anti-Trump text messages exchanged with his mistress, an FBI lawyer. Republicans see these texts as proof of a conspiracy within the FBI to stop Trump's election. The hearing became intense, with Rep. Trey Gowdy grilling Strzok, and Rep. Jerry Nadler accusing Chairman Bob Goodlatte of hiding the truth. The Democrats insisted that Strzok be allowed to answer questions, and he defended himself, stating that his personal beliefs never influenced his actions as an FBI agent. The testimony was marked by heated exchanges, with some members of Congress, including Rep. Louie Gohmert, making personal attacks on Strzok. Colbert concluded that the hearing was an attempt by Congress to undermine the integrity of law enforcement and protect the president from investigation.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The House Judiciary Committee held a hearing with FBI agent Peter Strzok.
2. Strzok was part of the FBI's investigations into Hillary Clinton and the Trump campaign.
3. Strzok exchanged anti-Trump text messages with his mistress, an FBI lawyer.
4. Republicans see these texts as proof of a conspiracy within the FBI to stop Trump from being elected.
5. Strzok was questioned by Congress about his text messages and his role in the investigations.
6. Strzok declined to answer some questions based on instructions from FBI lawyers.
7. Chairman Bob Goodlatte refused to let Strzok confer with the FBI counsel.
8. Congressman Trey Gowdy questioned Strzok about his text messages and his impartiality.
9. Congressman Jerry Nadler accused Goodlatte of hiding the truth and trying to obfuscate the issue.
10. Strzok denied that his personal beliefs influenced his actions in the investigations.
11. Congressman Louie Gohmert questioned Strzok about his personal life and his honesty.
12. The hearing was marked by intense partisan disagreements and arguments.