Leading the news: A source familiar with Stepien’s thinking told Axios Jonathan Swan that he had been summoned but did not want to testify and could hardly be considered a “friendly” witness. Status of the game: Instead, Stepien’s legal adviser “will appear and make a statement in the file”, according to the committee. The commission will also show footage from his videotaped deposition instead of his deposition, Axios confirmed.
Two well-known sources confirmed to Axios that Stepien’s wife had given birth.
What we’re watching: Monday’s hearing will focus on former President Trump’s “Big Lie” – declaring victory in the 2020 presidential election, even though he knew he did not have the numbers to win. Others scheduled to file include:
Byung J. “BJay” Pak, the Trump-appointed former U.S. attorney in Atlanta, who resigned abruptly the day before the Capitol Uprising. Former Fox News editor Chris Stirewalt. Election attorney Benjamin Ginsberg and former Philadelphia City Commissioner Al Schmidt.
Go deeper: Who testifies at the committee’s second hearing on 6 January Editor’s note: This story has been updated with additional details.
