Authentic Campaigns, led by Nellis, had been previously uncooperative in responding to a congressional subpoena. This subpoena was issued by Jordan in August, seeking information on the company's interactions with Manhattan Judge Juan Merchan.

The investigation focuses on Loren Merchan, President of Authentic Campaigns and daughter to Judge Merchan, who presided over former President Donald Trump's trial concerning business document filings in New York.

Increased Scrutiny on Authentic Campaigns

In a move to gather evidence, Jordan had previously requested in August that Nellis provide a deposition along with a sworn affidavit. The affidavit was to confirm that no communications had occurred between the campaign firm and Judge Merchan.

The involvement of Loren Merchan adds a layer of complexity, as she also declined to provide documents concerning the firm’s operations with the Biden-Harris reelection campaign, sparking further controversy.

Further intensifying the scrutiny, Jordan's recent correspondence with Nellis highlighted a payment receipt from the Harris campaign for web hosting services provided by Authentic Campaigns, which could suggest undisclosed interactions.

Legal and Ethical Questions Arise

The letter from Jordan alleges that the new evidence might contradict earlier statements made by Nellis to the committee, hinting at potential misinformation.

"The new information therefore appears to contradict Mr. Nellis’s prior representations to the Committee," Jordan expressed in his correspondence, signaling a serious accusation against the CEO of Authentic Campaigns.

Jim Jordan criticized Nellis’s reliance on the First Amendment as a defense, stating it was inadequate for refusing to submit the requested materials.

Final Ultimatum Set for Compliance

As tensions escalate, Jordan has given Mike Nellis until October 11 to respond, marking it as a final chance to comply with the subpoena demands.

"The objections to the subpoena are unfounded and unpersuasive and do not excuse your client’s noncompliance with the subpoena. The Committee writes to overrule your objections and to provide Mr. Nellis a final opportunity to comply with the subpoena," Jordan remarked.

This final warning serves as a pivotal moment in the investigation, potentially leading to significant legal and political ramifications depending on Nellis’s next actions.