The Political Chase

Specter sends inappropriate proposal on subpoenas to Bush

Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA) offered an inappropriate proposal, in my opinion, to the White House after the Judiciary Committee approved issuing subpoenas. Specter’s proposal would allow the Bushies,Karl Rove, Harriet Miers, et al, to testify, but to a limited group and not under oath.

Mr. Specter unsuccessfully urged his colleagues to seek compromise with the White House before threatening to force the testimony. After the committee approved the subpoenas, he spoke by telephone with Fred F. Fielding, the White House counsel, proposing that administration officials be questioned for the record by a limited number of lawmakers but without having to take an oath. Mr. Specter said Mr. Fielding had said he was not authorized to negotiate but would take the proposal to the president.

I don’t believe Leahy (D-VT) will accept those terms, especially given the other DOJ revelations today. The perpetual deception by this administration is beyond quantification, much less comprehension. It is no time to be suggesting more secrecy - the public needs to know what this administration has done and judge accordingly. Bush will be able to capitalize exponentially on any concessions of covert testimony. Furthermore, every member of Congress has the right to hear the Bushies’ testimony and question as appropriate and applicable.

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