Paul Ingrassia, Trump’s pick for U.S. Office of Special Counsel, hits early roadblock as Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) says no.
Tillis told NBC News he’s rejecting Ingrassia after a quick briefing. The reasons: Ingrassia’s links to Jan. 6 and other red flags.
Ingrassia, a far-right podcaster and commentator, has pushed wild takes, like calling for Jan. 6 to be a national holiday to honor a "peaceful protest." He also labeled the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel a “psyop.” 
Tillis is clear – he opposes any Trump nominees connected to Jan. 6 riots.
“I had not been following him,” Tillis said.
“I went into my office, got a preliminary briefing, and that’s enough for me to know there’s probably virtually no way I could get to a yes. It’s Jan. 6, it’s a number of other things. So, I think he’s one of these people that’s checked all the boxes, and they’re all the wrong boxes.”
With Senate votes tight, Tillis’ opposition could sink Ingrassia’s nomination.
“It’s pretty apparent to me he’s not ready for prime time, but he’s young, he’s got plenty of time to learn,” Tillis added.
Ingrassia’s confirmation hearing is tomorrow before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) said Ingrassia’s earlier statements will be a focus.
“I would never make some of the statements he’s made,” Lankford said.
“So, I think those are all things to be able to ask about and try to be able to figure out his perspective.”
This is a fresh blow for Trump’s nominee, already mired in controversy as the GOP eyes the limited slots for ‘yes’ votes.
