From Rep. Robert Wexler on 2/8/08:
Our Constitution is under threat and the most basic principle of
checks and balances is being undermined. Not since Watergate has a
president so openly disregarded the will of Congress.
During hearings in the Judiciary Committee yesterday, I told Attorney
General Michael Mukasey that I called for impeachment hearings because
of the stonewalling and blatant abuses of the Bush Administration. He
responded by stating that he will NOT enforce a contempt of Congress
citation against Harriet Miers and White House Chief of Staff Josh
Bolten for refusing to testify before Congress. The video is here:
Alberto Gonzales may be long gone, but the Bush Administration
continues its executive overreach with the new Attorney General.
We can debate the need for Impeachment hearings. We can argue its
effects on the election or our agenda. But one thing is abundantly
clear:
If Congress’ right to require testimony is undermined, then our
country’s leaders – Democrat, Republican, or Independent – will be
immune from accountability.
The power of the subpoena – to call officials before us – is one of
the most fundamental safeguards in our system of government. To have
it effectively discarded – by virtue of the President instructing
Administration officials to ignore a congressional subpoenas and not
even appear before Congress – is unprecedented. The idea that the
Attorney General would willingly defend this position – despite
Congress’ constitutional right to call such witnesses, is outrageous.
Impeachment hearings could render this moot: The President, Vice
President, and all officials under them would no longer invoke
executive privilege. There would be no more smokescreens.
In one week, I will be delivering my letter calling for impeachment
hearings to Chairman John Conyers. Already, 16 Members of Congress
have joined my call, including 3 Judiciary Committee members. I am
hopeful for more in the coming days, but it is important for you to
reach out to your representative in Congress to express how you feel.
You can view the current list of signers, here:
http://www.wexlerforcongress.com/news.asp?ItemID=230
I do not know how Congress will react, but I do know this: I will
pursue this course aggressively. I will not compromise away the
constitutional role of Congress. Your support is invaluable. Please
know that I am working everyday to ensure that the Bush Administration
is held accountable.
Please continue to support this movement at www.wexlerwantshearings.com.
Yours truly,
Congressman Robert Wexler