The top two House Democratic leaders flocked to Rep. Adam B. Schiff’s defense Thursday after Republicans called for him to be stripped of his post as chairman of the intelligence committee.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the Republican attacks were “shameful” and “irresponsible.”
“They’re just plain afraid,” she said. “They’re afraid of a leader who is recognized in our country as being calm, professional, patriotic.”
House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer said Mr. Schiff won’t be ousted from his post, praising his integrity and intelligence.
“There is not a person on my side of the aisle that believes Mr. Schiff has done anything but act in the highest interest of our government,” Mr. Hoyer said on the House floor, rejecting calls from Rep. Steve Scalise for a reprimand of Mr. Schiff, California Democrat.
“Mr. Schiff is a member of the highest integrity, highest intellect and great responsibility,” Mr. Hoyer continued.
SEE ALSO: Adam Schiff confronted by Republicans on House intel panel: ‘No faith in your ability’
The exchange on the House floor came at the same time as Mr. Schiff was holding a rare open hearing of the intelligence committee — and taking fire from Republican members who said they’d lost faith in his ability to lead.
Republicans said Mr. Schiff has repeatedly said he had evidence of “collusion” between the Trump campaign and Russia. The 22-month special counsel investigation determined that was not the case, according to a summary released this weekend.
• Gabriella Munñoz contributed to this article.
• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.
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