U.S. Congressman Jim Jordan demands Australia’s eSafety chief testify over online safety laws, prompting legal action and safety concerns.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant is securing legal representation after U.S. Congressman Jim Jordan demanded her testimony over Australia’s online safety laws, which require platforms like X to remove graphic content. Jordan, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, accused her of threatening free speech and threatened contempt charges. Inman Grant, a dual Australian-U.S. citizen, expressed safety concerns and said she is acting under Australian law, not personal policy, and is working with her government to address the unprecedented request. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed her, and the eSafety office’s legal costs have nearly doubled to nearly $2 million this year amid the escalating international legal challenge.