Scalise Tells House GOP Chairs to Prepare for Democratic Probes

House Republicans are preparing for a shift in power that will bring an aggressive wave of investigations from the incoming Democratic majority. Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., sent a letter to current committee chairs on Thursday outlining a strategy to counter these anticipated probes.

Scalise told the group to maximize their remaining time in power. He warned that Democrats would use their new oversight authorities to harass President Trump, his family, and cabinet officials. The letter described the committee chairs as a key line of defense in this effort.

The guidance focuses on three specific tasks. First, chairs must take inventory of the investigative efforts Democrats have already mounted or are likely to pursue. Second, they need to determine who sits on the target list. Finally, they must review how recent Supreme Court rulings and a Justice Department memo on executive privilege could shape future inquiries.

Scalise noted that potential targets span administration officials, programs, and external allies. This includes conservative partners and industry leaders. His staff will meet with relevant committees to continue preparations. He asked the chairs to let him know if they need additional tools or support from his office.

Democrats have signaled a sweeping oversight agenda aimed at Trump’s Cabinet, family, businesses, and allies as soon as they assume power next year. Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., the likely next chairman of the House Oversight Committee, issued a statement Tuesday night after Democrats were projected to win the chamber. Garcia wrote, "Lawyer up."

The Oversight Committee said that once Garcia becomes chairman, he will pursue the Trump Crime Family, corporate corruption, DHS and ICE abuses, and the cover-up of the Epstein files. Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee have also signaled plans to investigate Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.

A spokeswoman for House Judiciary Committee Democrats responded to Scalise’s letter by telling Fox News Digital that Republicans are compiling a list of corruption and lawlessness they have protected from oversight. She stated that the cover-up expires with the Republican majority. The letter arrived one day after Scalise launched his bid to become House minority leader, a contest in which he faces House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio.