It presages ongoing rejections of requests related to how the White House doled out individual security clearances to senior Trump aides. In total, nine Trump administration officials have declined to appear before House committees, according to a Democratic aide. White House officials believe there is little downside to stonewalling congressional investigators, even if that results in prolonged legal battles with uncertain outcomes. The handling of congressional requests and an expected increase in subpoenas is already consuming resources and time inside the White House. The White House last week announced five new additions to the counsel's office.

Source: CNN April 17, 2019 21:56 UTC