Trump administration officials are hiring lawyers as Democrats prepare possible investigations if they retake Congress, WSJ reports

Trump administration officials, from cabinet secretaries to midlevel staffers, are hiring lawyers as they prepare for possible congressional investigations if Democrats regain control of one or both chambers in the November 3 midterm elections, The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday.

According to the Journal, officials are contacting law firms for legal advice amid expectations that a Democratic victory could trigger a wave of subpoenas and investigations next year.

Democrats have been preparing investigations into multiple areas of the Trump administration if they win the House, while the White House is preparing for potential oversight battles. The Journal reported separately last month that possible targets include administration conduct, business and financial relationships involving Trump allies, and other actions Democrats say warrant congressional scrutiny.

Law firms ranging from major national practices to conservative boutiques have seen increased interest from administration officials seeking representation, according to the Journal. The rush to secure lawyers is partly driven by concerns that firms could face conflicts if several officials later seek representation in the same investigations.

The preparation extends beyond government officials. Companies and executives with ties to the administration are also seeking legal advice over the possibility that Democratic-led congressional committees could issue subpoenas.

The Journal said the White House has publicly played down the prospect of investigations but has also taken steps to prepare for a possible change in congressional control. Some subpoenas could begin arriving as early as February if Democrats take power.