Top GOP lawmaker weighs Kerry subpoena

• If they don't comply, the panel "will have to consider other means, including compulsory process."

Why it matters: It's an escalation of GOP efforts to learn more about the work of Kerry, the former secretary of State who's occupying a powerful position within the Biden administration as a climate super-diplomat.

Zoom in: The letter seeks a range of documents on budgets, communications with outside governments and advocacy groups, and much more by May 9.

The big picture: The letter attacks Kerry's work alongside the demand for documents.

• It alleges Kerry's activities "skirt congressional authority, threaten foreign policy under the guise of climate advocacy, and could undermine our economic health."

The other side: Kerry's has been working to corral more aggressive climate commitments from other countries — including China, the world's largest emitter — and the private sector.

• Administration officials, including Kerry, emphasize that failing to stem global emissions will bring damaging economic consequences.