Liz Cheney, former Republican representative, faces allegations of unethical conduct related to Cassidy Hutchinson’s Jan. 6 committee testimony, stirring political and legal tensions.
At a Glance
- Cheney allegedly communicated with Hutchinson without her lawyer’s knowledge, raising ethical concerns.
- Cheney coordinated Hutchinson’s interview through another party, bypassing legal counsel.
- Potential breaches of professional conduct rules by Cheney.
- Hutchinson’s testimony altered significantly with new legal representation.
Alleged Ethical Breaches
Liz Cheney communicated with Cassidy Hutchinson, a key witness in the January 6 investigation, regarding her testimony for the Select Committee, allegedly without the knowledge of Hutchinson’s attorney, Stefan Passantino. This action has sparked discussions about possible ethical violations by Cheney.
Cheney’s actions may contravene Washington, D.C., bar’s rules of professional conduct, an assertion that is central to the case. Stefan Passantino, Hutchinson’s attorney at the time, was reportedly unaware of these communications and is considering legal repercussions.
New evidence shows Liz Cheney and Cassidy Hutchinson communicated through back-channels, without Hutchinson’s attorney, just before Hutchinson changed her sworn J6 testimony.
This was not about running a real investigation. @jsolomonReports https://t.co/EJMrcPVTiE
— Rep. Barry Loudermilk (@RepLoudermilk) October 16, 2024
Hutchinson’s Evolving Testimony
Hutchinson’s testimony underwent significant alterations after Cheney recommended new legal representation for her, leading to further interviews. Throughout these proceedings, Cheney not only advised Hutchinson but also arranged for her to speak to the committee without Passantino’s involvement, raising questions about the integrity of the committee’s inquiry.
In key conversations, Hutchinson revealed to Alyssa Farah Griffin in April 2022 that she possessed additional evidence pertinent to the investigation. This claim of evidence further complicates her narrative, which diverged sharply with the addition of new legal counsel suggested by Cheney.
Another reason why the House must pass my resolution to repudiate the illegitimate J6 committee. https://t.co/3tSgmyc71t
— Rep. Eric Burlison (@RepEricBurlison) October 16, 2024
Controversial Political Implications
The interactions have drawn scrutiny over the potential compromise in the Select Committee’s transparency and impartiality. Cheney’s coordination of Hutchinson’s testimony through Alyssa Farah Griffin is indicative of the convoluted political dynamics at play.
Such maneuvers have incited critics to question whether Cheney’s interventions were driven by partisan motivations. Alongside Hutchinson and Griffin, Cheney has been perceived to lend support to Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign efforts in various swing states.
