Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Windsor Johnston.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has blocked two Democrats from serving on the Intelligence

Committee.

NPR's Lexi Shepittle reports the move was not a surprise to Democrats, but escalates the

ongoing battle between the parties over who is qualified for certain positions within

the chamber.

McCarthy blocked California Democratic Congressman Adam Schiff and Eric Swawal from keeping

their seats on the Intel Committee, citing concerns for, quote, national security.

The panel is a permanent select committee, which means the Speaker has the authority

to approve or reject appointees.

Shiff and Swawal both previously served on the committee and both were involved in the

impeachment of former President Trump.

Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Swawal accused McCarthy of exacting, quote, political

vengeance.

The Speaker of the House is using his power to go after his political opponents and to

pick them off the field.

Shiff and Swawal will keep their other committee positions.

Shiff is expected to serve on the House Judiciary Panel.

Lexi Shepittle and PR News Washington.

German Chancellor Olaf Schultz told the country's parliament today that it was the right thing

to have waited to send battle tanks to Ukraine in order to work with its international partners

in doing so.

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