WASHINGTON — In a tense session, the House dismissed a Democratic attempt to block a Republican resolution aimed at censuring Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-VI) and removing her from the influential Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. This move follows disclosures that she communicated with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a notorious sex offender.

The House narrowly voted against sending the censure resolution to the House Ethics Committee, with 214 members opposing the motion and 213 supporting it. This decision clears the path for the censure proposal to be debated later in the week.

Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced the censure resolution following revelations that Plaskett had exchanged texts with Epstein in February 2019, allegedly seeking damaging information about President Trump.

“Jeffrey Epstein was a predator who preyed on minors. It’s unfathomable that any Congressional member would collaborate with him on official matters,” stated Norman.

“These were not random interactions. These were intentional communications that influenced a hearing meant to criticize President Trump. It calls into question her judgment, integrity, and suitability for office,” he added.

Three Republicans supported the motion to refer the resolution to the committee.