Peter Navarro, the man who once whispered economic and trade advice into Donald Trump’s ear, found himself center stage this Wednesday. Not for his Harvard PhD, but for an alleged contempt of Congress.
In a rather ostentatious display, Stanley Woodward, Navarro’s lawyer, took a dig at the government for not addressing his client as “Dr. Navarro.” It might be essential for Navarro to remind people of his educational credentials, but when it comes to understanding contempt of Congress, no PhD is required.
The facts are simple. Navarro received a subpoena from the January 6 committee, but instead of responding or even engaging with its members, he pulled the ‘ignorance’ card. As federal prosecutor John Crabb aptly put it, “It wasn’t an invitation. It’s a legal requirement.”
While many complied with the committee’s demands, Navarro took a page out of Steve Bannon’s book and decided silence was the best policy. Unlike Mark Meadows and Dan Scavino, who at least engaged in negotiations before refusing cooperation, Navarro thought he’d just glide over it all. His strategy? Claiming executive privilege on Trump’s supposed private orders.
What’s intriguing here is Navarro’s audacious assertion that the Constitution, in his interpretation, gives him a free pass against official congressional inquiries. What’s even more astonishing? He believes that his take on the Constitution is so unique that he doesn’t have to share it with anyone.
Crabb’s message was clear-cut: “Mr. Navarro ignored his subpoena.” No highbrow degree or title makes you above the law. As Crabb continued, it became evident that Navarro’s public statements, especially his wild claims about voter fraud and his ‘Green Bay Sweep’ plan, were what the committee was genuinely keen on probing.
And when Navarro did decide to interact after receiving the subpoena notice, it was with a dismissive four-word email. The content? A vague assertion of “executive privilege,” hinting at his intention to sidestep the request. The committee’s queries were broad, spanning topics Navarro had often and openly discussed. Yet, Navarro pulled the executive privilege card, sans evidence of Trump’s alleged directive.
Though the trial started on a dramatic note, it wrapped up pretty quickly. The defense didn’t present any witnesses, while the prosecution kept it brief, focusing on Navarro’s blatant disregard for the subpoena and the law.
The trial is a stark reminder that no academic degree or White House position puts one above the law. In a democracy, everyone must be held accountable. Now, as the jury deliberates, one can’t help but wonder if Navarro’s Harvard PhD will save him from a conviction or if justice will prevail. Stay tuned for a verdict that promises to be swift!
