House Republicans Seek Committee to Investigate Radical Left After Kirk Assassination

In response to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and a group of House Republicans have called for the formation of a new select committee to investigate what they describe as a coordinated campaign of political violence and lawlessness fueled by 'radical left' groups. The committee would focus on uncovering the financial and organizational backing of these groups, naming figures like George Soros, Antifa, and organizations such as the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Wren Collective as targets of scrutiny, with subpoena powers to investigate thoroughly. Roy and signatories argue that this violence and intimidation disproportionately come from the left and have cited past attacks, including the 2024 assassination attempt on President Donald Trump and the 2017 congressional baseball shooting. Despite these accusations, experts have disputed the claim that political violence is monopolized by one side, noting incidents across the political spectrum. The call for investigation aligns with President Trump's own statements condemning the 'radical left' for harming innocent Americans and promising to pursue accountability. However, some leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have urged lowering political rhetoric amidst recent attacks on public figures, emphasizing the need to avoid inflaming tensions further.