Quick Hit

Republican House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan will initiates an investigation into the U.S. Department of Justice's treatment of Blaze News journalist Steve Baker regarding his coverage of the Jan. 6 events at the U.S. Capitol.

Key Details

• Jordan's scathing letter to Matthew Graves, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, expresses "serious concerns" about the DOJ's handling of Baker's arrest and prosecution.
• The letter highlights discrepancies in the treatment of Baker compared to other journalists present during the Jan. 6 events, questioning selective prosecution.
• Baker's attorney raises objections to the DOJ's actions, noting violations of press freedoms and equal justice under the law.

Diving Deeper

As reported by The Blaze, Republican House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan has launched a probe into the U.S. Department of Justice's arrest and treatment of Blaze News journalist Steve Baker regarding his coverage of the events that unfolded on Jan. 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol.

Jordan's inquiry stems from a letter addressed to Matthew Graves, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, dated March 12, which outlines "serious concerns" about the DOJ's actions. The letter, made public by independent journalist Breanna Morello, questions the selective prosecution of Baker, who was critical of federal investigations and prosecutions related to Jan. 6.

In his letter, Jordan highlights discrepancies in the treatment of Baker compared to other journalists present during the Jan. 6 events. Despite other journalists facing no charges, Baker was indicted by the DOJ, prompting concerns of unfair targeting.

Baker's attorney echoed these concerns, asserting that the DOJ's actions violate press freedoms and the principle of equal justice under the law. The attorney noted that the DOJ's decision to subject Baker to formal arrest, including handcuffing and transport in restraints, appears to be an act of harassment.

Furthermore, Jordan demanded transparency from the DOJ, requesting all documents and communications related to Baker's arrest and other Jan. 6-related cases. The Judiciary Committee asserts its jurisdiction to oversee the DOJ regarding matters concerning civil liberties.

Baker and Blaze Media have welcomed Jordan's investigation, emphasizing the importance of upholding press freedoms and equal justice under the law. Blaze Media's editor in chief, Matthew Peterson, stressed that the investigation is not a partisan issue but crucial to preserving the integrity of journalism in America.

"Jim Jordan" by Gage Skidmore licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED.