You can add this to the list of self-inflicted wounds from these idiots since they were sadly allowed to take control of the House this year. Florida-Man Matt Gaetz and his staff apparently aren't too good at doing background checks. Given the fact that Gaetz might have a lot of trouble passing one himself, I don't find this all that surprising.
Matt Gaetz Honors Accused Murderer In First Judiciary Committee Meeting:
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) kicked off the first meeting of the House Judiciary Committee last week by cordially inviting an accused murderer to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Under its new Republican leadership, the 118th Congress’ Judiciary Committee may choose to start each hearing with the pledge ― an amendment to the rules put forth by Gaetz, who said it allowed members to invite “inspirational constituents” to lead it.
The first honor went to Corey Beekman, a retired National Guard member accused of killing a man in 2019 whose case has not gone to trial.
Gaetz did not mention this aspect of his guest’s backstory. Beekman led the pledge in his military dress uniform on Feb. 1.
