Jul 03, 2007

Van Hollen Statement on the House Republican Leadership’s Support of Libby Commutation

Jul 3, 2007

Van Hollen Statement on the House Republican Leadership’s Support of Libby Commutation

Chairman Chris Van Hollen released the following statement today on comments by the House Republican Leadership in support of President Bush’s decision to commute Scooter Libby’s sentence:

“Comments by Leader Boehner and Congressman Blunt supporting the President’s decision to commute Scooter Libby’s sentence serves as a reminder that House Republicans refuse to hold their own accountable. A jury found Mr. Libby guilty of lying and obstructing a federal investigation. A judge then sentenced him to prison. But true to form, the House Republican leadership is lining up behind the President’s decision to shield Mr. Libby from accountability.

“The American people expect anyone who breaks the law to be held accountable, including public officials. Unfortunately, the President and House Republicans believe there are exceptions.”

Background:

In case you missed it:

House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) said the following:

“The President’s decision on Mr. Libby was the right one, and I believe it ensures that the interests of justice and fairness are both served. Given the fact that the prosecutor in this case never charged any individual with breaking the law with regard to the disclosure of Valerie Plame’s name to the media, I agree with the President that the sentence was excessive and support his decision to commute Mr. Libby’s prison sentence.” [July 3, 2007]

House Republican Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO) said the following:

"President Bush did the right thing today in commuting the prison term for Scooter Libby…The prison sentence was overly harsh and the punishment did not fit the crime. The sentence was based on charges that had nothing to do with the leak of the identity of a CIA operative.” [July 3, 2007]

Want the latest updates? Follow the DCCC on Facebook and Twitter: