Rep. Liz Cheney told ABC News’ chief Washington correspondent Jonathan Karl that it is still possible that former President Donald Trump may testify before the committee on January 6 and that his interactions with the committee will be ‘under oath.’
Cheney appeared on a preview of ABC’s This Week on Sunday, where she was asked directly about Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence being subpoenaed to testify. Cheney, who serves as vice head of the Jan. 6 Select Committee examining the attack on the U.S. Capitol, stated that Pence has expressed interest in appearing.
Then, Karl questioned Cheney, “What about Trump?” She stated that the chance still exists.
“I do not wish to make any related statements this morning. So, I’ll leave it at that,’ she added.
Cheney stated that she did not wish to ‘get ahead’ of the committee, but assured that any interactions with Trump would be conducted under oath.
‘Yes. Cheney told Karl, “I mean, I don’t — again, I don’t want to get in front of committee debates about it.” As I stated at the first or second hearing, I believe it is vital that his interactions with our committee be conducted under oath.
Cheney also informed Karl that Pence had suggested earlier in the week that he might consider testifying soon. She said that continuous negotiations are occurring with his legal team.
Cheney stated, “I hope he understands how vital it is for the American people to get the entire truth about what transpired that day.” “As you can see, he played a crucial role on January 6.” If he had yielded to the pressure Donald Trump was exerting on him, the constitutional crisis would have been considerably greater,’ Cheney claimed.
And I believe, as he has said, that he has concerns about executive privilege, for which, you know, I have enormous respect. In terms of separation of powers, I believe it is a constitutional matter of the utmost importance.’
She went on to say, “I believe in executive privilege.” I believe it is important. But I also believe that when a country has experienced something as catastrophic as this, everyone with relevant information has a duty to come forward. Therefore, I expect that he will do so.’