AP Top Political News at 7:30 p.m. EST

U.S. House Votes to Create Commission on January 6 Attack

In a 222-190 vote, the House of Representatives passed a bill to establish an independent commission to investigate the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The bill, which passed with the support of all Democrats and 35 Republicans, will now go to the Senate for a vote. If the bill is passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Biden, the commission would have subpoena power and could compel witnesses to testify. The commission would also be required to issue a final report within one year of its creation.

House Republicans Divided on Commission

House Republicans were divided on the bill, with 35 voting in favor and 190 voting against. Some Republicans argued that the commission was unnecessary, as there are already multiple investigations into the January 6 attack. Others argued that the commission would be too partisan and would not produce a fair or accurate report.

Democrats Back Commission as Necessary for Accountability

Democrats argued that the commission is necessary to hold those responsible for the attack accountable and to prevent similar attacks from happening in the future. They also argued that the commission would be nonpartisan and would be led by a group of experts.

Next Steps for the Bill

The bill will now go to the Senate for a vote. It is unclear whether the bill will pass the Senate, as some Republicans have already expressed opposition to it. If the bill is passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Biden, the commission would be created and would begin its investigation into the January 6 attack.