Overview
- House Republicans say they were blindsided by the last‑minute provision and plan a fast‑track vote to scrap it, with a Wednesday vote described by GOP sources and a two‑thirds threshold expected under suspension rules.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune has defended the language as a deterrent to investigative overreach, while Speaker Mike Johnson has softened his criticism of motives but still backs repeal.
- Only some affected senators indicate they may sue under the statute, with Lindsey Graham saying he will pursue damages and several others publicly declining or distancing themselves from the payout option.
- The provision applies exclusively to senators, excluding representatives whose records were also obtained, a limitation that has fueled resentment among House members including Rep. Mike Kelly.
- Estimates suggest taxpayer exposure could reach millions if multiple suits succeed, with at least $500,000 per incident plus attorneys’ fees available under the statute.