If the upcoming midterm elections result in a Democratic majority in the House next year, companies, organizations, and individuals can expect a new wave of congressional investigations, hearings, and oversight, with a familiar focus on the Trump administration and an emphasis on a variety of private sector targets. The Democratic messaging heading into the elections, which is heavily focused on affordability and economic fairness, is a leading indicator of the issues that could feature heavily in future congressional oversight. Recent comments by Democratic leaders and letters sent by Democratic Ranking Members of various committees provide additional insights on the likely direction of oversight in a potential new Democratic majority.
In an interview late last week, for instance, Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Cal.), the Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, emphasized that “larger corporations” would be a central focus of oversight, which will include companies that “us[e] data to manipulate pricing,” “foreign interests that are driving up the cost of housing,” and government benefits and opportunities “going to friends and family” of President Trump. In this alert, we outline specific priorities and industries that will likely feature in a future Democratic oversight agenda.