GOP Lawmaker Questions New Socialists' Access to Intelligence

Republican Representative Nicole Malliotakis has called on House Speaker Mike Johnson to thoroughly vet the intelligence access granted to two newly elected Democratic lawmakers who are members of the Democratic Socialists of America.

In a letter to Speaker Johnson, Malliotakis expressed concerns that the socialist affiliation of Representatives-elect Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib poses a potential national security risk. Malliotakis argued that their stated political ideologies could conflict with the United States' foreign policy and national security interests, particularly in relation to intelligence sharing.

Malliotakis, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, stated her intention to ensure that individuals in Congress with access to classified information do not pose a threat to U.S. interests. The lawmaker's appeal highlights ongoing ideological divisions within Congress and raises questions about the security vetting process for members of Congress who may hold views outside the traditional political mainstream.