The most powerful committee

For the last four years, it was my honor to chair the Rules Committee in the House. I always say it's the most powerful committee that most people don't know anything about.

Before any bill can go to the floor, the Rules Committee must put together rules to govern debate and approve any amendments on it. The Speaker chooses what legislation comes to the floor, but the Rules Committee shapes it into its final form.

Last week, when the laughably named "Freedom Caucus" held the entire House hostage, one of their top demands was more control of the Rules Committee. And because Kevin McCarthy cares more for landing a fancy title than serving the public, they succeeded.

This is extremely dangerous. In an effort to secure his own power, McCarthy handed the right to manage debate to right-wing bomb-throwers like Matt Gaetz and Lauren Boebert.

Maybe next week he can appoint an arsonist to lead the fire department.

McCarthy's always been a terrible leader, and he's already proven he won't be an effective Speaker. He's been too weak to take on the extremism infesting his caucus, and now the fascists hold the reins.

When we have the chance to take back the House, we need to be ready. The work's already begun, in fact. Will you join me in the fight?

Whatever happens, you can count on me to take on the fascists in Congress and keep fighting for the American people.

Jim