WASHINGTON — House Republicans on Tuesday blocked an attempt by Democrats to use an obscure law to obtain President Donald Trump’s tax returns from the IRS.

Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee tried to frame the issue as a matter of national security. They questioned whether Trump has any investments in Russia.

Trump has said he has no investments in Russia, and Democrats acknowledged that have no evidence otherwise. That’s why they want Trump’s returns, said Rep. Joseph Crowley, R-N.Y.

The move came a day after Trump’s national security adviser, Michael Flynn, was forced to resign over conversations he had with Russian officials before Trump took office.

“People are concerned about Michael Flynn putting himself in a position to be blackmailed. What position is the president in?” asked Crowley. “Our national security is at risk.”

The Ways and Means Committee has legal authority to obtain confidential tax records. The committee could then vote to make them public.

Committee Chairman Kevin Brady, R-Texas, said the panel should only use its power to ensure that tax laws are being administered properly — not to investigate the president.