The U.S. Supreme Court has cleared the path for the dismissal of the contempt of Congress case against Steve Bannon, a former advisor to ex-President Donald Trump, according to legal sources familiar with the matter. The decision follows a protracted legal battle over Bannon’s refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot.
Bannon was charged with two counts of contempt after he defied a subpoena to testify before the committee, arguing that executive privilege protected his communications with Trump. Lower courts had previously ruled against Bannon, but the Supreme Court’s latest action effectively halts further prosecution.
Legal analysts suggest the ruling could have broader implications for future congressional investigations. “This decision may embolden other witnesses to resist subpoenas, citing similar privilege claims,” said one constitutional law expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The Justice Department has not yet commented on whether it will pursue alternative legal avenues. Meanwhile, critics of the decision argue it undermines congressional oversight powers. The case has been closely watched as a test of the balance between executive privilege and legislative authority.