Lawyers representing Christine Blasey Ford, the California professor who alleges Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her when they were teenagers in high school, want the FBI to conduct an investigation before she agrees to testify. The attorneys—Debra Katz and Lisa Banks of the Washington firm Katz, Marshall & Banks—made their request in a letter Tuesday night to Senate judiciary leaders.

“As the Judiciary Committee has recognized and done before, an FBI investigation of the incident should be the first step in addressing her allegations,” Ford's attorneys wrote. “A full investigation by law enforcement officials will ensure that the crucial facts and witnesses in this matter are assessed in a non-partisan manner, and that the Committee is fully informed before conducting any hearing or making any decisions.”

Kavanaugh has “categorically and unequivocally” denied any assault occurred. Kavanaugh and Ford on Monday both said they were willing to testify at a public hearing. Senate judiciary leaders set that hearing for Monday, Sept. 24. Whether or not that hearing occurs as scheduled, or proceeds without Ford, is uncertain.

The Senate Judiciary Committee said in a statement Tuesday night: “Dr. Ford's testimony would reflect her personal knowledge and memory of events. Nothing the FBI or any other investigator does would have any bearing on what Dr. Ford tells the committee, so there is no reason for any further delay.” The committee said Monday's invitation to Ford stands.

The letter Ford's lawyers sent to Senate judiciary leaders is posted below:

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