Mike Thompson: “as everyone knows, the Governmental Affairs Committee has begun an investigation into foreign campaign contributions and…”

“as everyone knows, the Governmental Affairs Committee has begun an investigation into foreign campaign contributions and fundraising activities of the 1996 Presidential campaign. I believe that it is appropriate at the outset to set forth exactly what we were about, to discuss the committee's jurisdiction, the scope of its investigation, its purpose, and what principles we will apply in resolving the issues that will face us. The reasons to discuss this now at this time are several. First, we who are on the committee and in the Congress need to remind ourselves of these basics so we may keep our focus in the days ahead. Second, the American people need to understand the nature and purpose of our work in order that they will respect the process and the results of our efforts. Third, it is necessary to respond to some of the questions in the media and elsewhere as to the committee's role and purpose.”