Nadler calls for Republican members to stop ‘refusing to wear masks’ during Barr hearing

House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) called on three Republican committee members to wear face coverings during a hearing Tuesday with Attorney General William Barr. 

“I would remind Mr. Jordan, Mr. Biggs and Mr. Johnson to stop violating the rules of the committee, to stop violating the safety of the members of the committee, to stop holding themselves out as not caring by refusing to wear their masks,” Nadler said, referring to Reps. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), and Mike Johnson (R-La.). 

A member was heard asking Nadler in response if it is “permissible to drink a sip of coffee.” 

Nadler responded it is “not permissible.”

Most members were seen wearing face coverings throughout the hearing when they were not speaking. For the most part, members removed face masks during their time to speak. 

Some members participated in the hearing remotely.

Public health experts widely recommend the use of face coverings, especially in indoor or close settings, to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. 

In his opening remarks and throughout the hearing Barr defended himself against Democratic accusations trying to paint him as a Trump loyalist. Members are asking Barr about several Justice Department decisions, including his handling of high profile cases involving Trump’s friends, Roger Stone and former national security adviser Michael Flynn, as well as the use of federal forces in U.S. cities.