House Majority Whip Tom Emmer has called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to take immediate action on criminal referrals against former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, citing Cohen’s history of perjury and admitted theft.
In a letter addressed to Garland, Emmer highlighted Cohen’s past conviction for lying to Congress and reiterated that Cohen had been referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) on multiple occasions for perjury and making false statements during congressional testimony.
“Michael D Cohen has proven to be a pathological liar, particularly to Congress,” Emmer wrote.
Emmer pointed out instances where Cohen’s statements contradicted evidence, such as his denial of seeking employment in the Trump administration despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Emmer also noted Cohen’s admission during a recent trial that he had conversations about working in the White House and his desire for a prominent role.
Furthermore, Emmer highlighted Cohen’s admission to stealing from the Trump Organization, a felony for which Cohen was not charged. Emmer argued that Cohen’s credibility as a witness is compromised, especially considering his role as a key witness in the prosecution of former President Trump.
“In other words, the prosecution’s star witness admitted to a more significant felony than what the prosecution has charged for President Trump with,” he wrote, adding that “despite Mr. Cohen’s record of lying under oath and being a self-admitted thief, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is currently utilizing Mr. Cohen as his star witness in the prosecution of President Joe Biden’s chief political rival, former President Trump, who is the presumptive nominee for president.”
We’re going to use every resource at our disposal to hold the DOJ's feet to the fire until Convict Cohen is behind bars and Americans get the answers they deserve about the shady characters who are attempting to pull off the greatest sham in U.S. history.https://t.co/fHDGNJJ68e
— Tom Emmer (@tomemmer) May 22, 2024
Referencing relevant sections of the United States Code, Emmer emphasized that Cohen’s actions constitute perjury and making false statements, punishable under federal law. He called on the DOJ to act swiftly on the criminal referrals submitted by congressional committees.
Cohen’s recent testimony during Trump’s trial, where he admitted to stealing from the Trump Organization and lying about reimbursement payments, further underscores the need for legal action against him.
Emmer’s letter reflects growing concerns within the GOP about Cohen’s credibility and his role in ongoing legal proceedings involving Trump. It remains to be seen how the DOJ will respond to Emmer’s demands for prosecution.
