Bill Pascrell: “I am saying here and very specifically, we have no way of knowing whether Mr. Trump or his firms have received Russian…”

“I am saying here and very specifically, we have no way of knowing whether Mr. Trump or his firms have received Russian income. It is an insult to the integrity of this House-- Republicans and Democrats alike. We need to know this. We need to know that the President of the United States is beyond question in his objectivity with any nation, and particularly those who are pretty shaky in relationship with, like Russia. A certified letter from paid attorneys that actually confirms the President, in fact, does have financial ties to Russia does nothing to assuage these concerns. The legislative branch has the responsibility--it has the authority-- to check the executive branch, and section 6103(f)(1) is very clear, very distinct, the privilege of the House--the privilege of the Tax Code--which allows for an examination of the tax returns, the authority put in place specifically so Congress could examine conflicts of interest in the executive following the Teapot Dome scandal. As I mentioned before, the possible sale of public lands under this administration is not very different than the biggest scandal of the 20th century at Teapot Rock, Wyoming. Mr. Speaker, nothing could be more of a threat to the integrity of this distinguished---- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair has heard the gentleman's argument and is prepared to rule.”