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Ignored subpoenas could revive a dormant House power, Global reports

Candice Cole's report examines Democrats' investigation plans and the possibility of using inherent contempt to enforce congressional demands.

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Global News Story of November 6, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? One of Global News's most watched videos since yesterday, with 228,772 views.

Democrats poised to investigate Trump, administration after landslide midterm victory

Democrats preparing to investigate Donald Trump's administration may face a question beyond whom to call: what happens if witnesses ignore their subpoenas?

Global News's Candice Cole examines that prospect in a Washington report on the powers Democrats will gain after their congressional victories. The segment introduces inherent contempt, Congress's authority to enforce its demands itself, rather than relying on prosecution through the executive branch.

"We may be into some new ground, something called inherent contempt that the House hasn't utilized in 90 years," former House Oversight chair Tom Davis says.

The preparations are already under way, according to George Washington University's Todd Belt: "Democrats already have investigations lined up. They have lists of people that they want to bring in." Global also reports that Democrats are warning Republicans to preserve government records, while Robert Garcia, expected to lead House Oversight, has posted the warning "Lawyer up!"

Investigations do not necessarily mean another impeachment. Davis argues that impeachment should not become a parliamentary-style vote of no confidence, and the report describes expert doubts about a repeat effort.

Cole also looks beyond House hearings: Democratic Senate control would give the party leverage over judicial and Cabinet confirmations, alongside congressional decisions about agency funding.

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