PHILADELPHIA — Today, in response to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ vote to hold
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner in contempt, City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (3rd
District) released the following statement:
“I stand in support of District Attorney Larry Krasner, and wholeheartedly condemn the unconstitutional,
partisan attacks against his office.
“The call for DA Krasner’s impeachment was made by three Republican politicians who live hundreds of
miles away from Philadelphia yet claim to be concerned about the gun violence in our communities. Even
a casual observer can see that this is a thinly veiled political stunt, as these lawmakers have time and time
again refused to pass common-sense gun control legislation that would promote the welfare and safety of
everyday Philadelphians. These proceedings set a dangerous precedent and violate the rights of
Philadelphia voters to choose who represents them in government.”
“This isn’t just a matter of political impropriety – it’s an unconstitutional act. The subpoena issued by the
House Select Committee on Restoring Law and Order violates the separation of legislative and executive
powers. By requesting that the DA provide grand jury testimony to the House Select Committee –
notably, grand jury testimony about a police prosecution – the Committee is asking DA Krasner to break
the law. That is a blatant attempt to interfere with the criminal legal process for political reasons. The fact
that the legislature declined to wait for a Commonwealth Court ruling before holding DA Krasner in
contempt further demonstrates State Republicans’ disregard for the rule of law.
“If Republican State lawmakers truly cared about the well-being of Philadelphians, they would end this
charade and pass new laws to get guns out of young people’s hands. Instead, they waste time on political
theater, while countless lives hang in the balance.”
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