G. Legislative Oversight

Congress has the power and duty to oversee the rest of the government and to investigate problems that might need new laws. But Congress cannot use this power to threaten or intimidate people or groups for political or social purposes.

Only a committee or subcommittee may conduct oversight and investigations. The Chair or Vice Chair must write a statement explaining why the investigation is happening. This statement must be made public immediately, unless it contains classified information that must be kept confidential.

The written minutes of committee and subcommittee meetings must also be made public right away, unless they are classified. No video or audio recordings are allowed. This rule is intended to prevent Members from using investigations as a platform to deliver speeches or pose questions solely for embarrassing witnesses or political opponents. Performative politics is not an appropriate tool for Congress, and investigations must not be used for that purpose.