In a significant escalation in the scrutiny of former special counsel Jack Smith's team, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) has referred Thomas Windom, a former senior aide to Smith, to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for potentially obstructing a congressional investigation.

Thomas Windom, who played a crucial role as senior assistant special counsel, faced a series of interviews and depositions with congressional investigators throughout this year. His latest deposition in September, however, has triggered serious allegations from Chairman Jordan, culminating in a formal referral to the DOJ.

In a letter addressed to Attorney General Pam Bondi on Wednesday, Jordan detailed that despite DOJ's prior authorization for Windom's testimony, Windom refrained from answering many questions. He based his refusal on claims of lacking further authorization, various privileges, and rights, which Jordan contests as unfounded.

“The Committee on the Judiciary writes to refer significant evidence that Thomas Windom...has, by his conduct during a deposition before the Committee, obstructed a congressional investigation,” Jordan stated in his referral letter. This letter forms a part of a broader Republican-led initiative across both houses of Congress to question the integrity of investigations led by Jack Smith into former President Donald Trump, suggesting a politicization of federal law enforcement.

During Windom’s September deposition, according to Jordan, Windom and his attorney invoked several defenses, including First Amendment privileges, attorney-client confidentiality, a supposed lack of legitimate legislative purpose for the inquiry, and the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Jordan, however, dismissed these claims as unpersuasive.

The Department of Justice acknowledged the receipt of Jordan’s letter but has remained tight-lipped regarding specific actions. “Consistent with longstanding policy, the Department does not comment on active or potential investigations. We share the Chairman’s concerns and will continue to ensure that justice is applied fairly and equally to all Americans,” a DOJ spokesperson noted.

A spokesperson for Windom directed queries back to the transcript of his testimony. During the proceedings, Windom's legal counsel criticized the seriousness of Jordan’s probe and claimed it infringed upon Windom’s First Amendment rights.

This referral marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing tug-of-war between congressional oversight and former special counsel operations, setting the stage for potential legal battles and further political discourse on the conduct and impartiality of federal investigations into high-profile political figures.