Democrats release transcript of top Pentagon official’s testimony

Washington — Democrats in the House released a transcript of testimony by Laura Cooper, a top Pentagon official who appeared behind closed doors before the impeachment committees on October 23.

Cooper is deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia whose responsibilities include overseeing U.S. military assistance to Ukraine. The delay of the release of nearly $400 million in aid is central to Democrats’ case against President Trump.

The transcript is 115 pages, notably shorter than testimony by other witnesses. Cooper’s appearance was delayed for several hours after House Republicans stormed the secure hearing room and refused to leave, an act of protest against the Democrats’ handling of proceedings.

Read the full text of Cooper’s testimony here

Olivia Gazis contributed reporting.