Political Quotes

“I would like to offer just few comments to indicate why I believe the course chosen by the majority today relating to the independent counsel is unwarranted. First, the official responsible for initiating the appointment of an independent counsel--Attorney General Janet Reno--has maintained the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Second, the Attorney General has proven her willingness to request the appointment of independent counsels in the past when she believed the statutory standard was met. And, third, the Attorney General has already undertaken a serious inquiry into the campaign fundraising issues and continues to consider, as the facts develop, whether to seek an independent counsel. As we review the facts, we must remember that the independent counsel statute is triggered only upon receipt of specific, credible evidence that high-ranking Government officials listed in the statute may have violated our criminal laws. This is an appropriately high threshold that must be met before the process of appointing an independent counsel can go forward. This standard is not met by vague allegations.”