Bill Delahunt: “I oppose the resolution of inquiry as reported by the Judiciary Committee. I do so based on the concerns expressed in…”

“I oppose the resolution of inquiry as reported by the Judiciary Committee. I do so based on the concerns expressed in the Minority's dissenting views, and for the additional reasons set forth below. I On September 9, 1998, Independent Counsel Kenneth W. Starr referred information to the House that he alleged may constitute grounds for impeaching the President. In the 30 days that have elapsed since our receipt of that referral, neither the Judiciary Committee nor any other congressional committee has conducted even a preliminary independent review of the allegations it contains. In the absence of such a review, we have no basis for knowing whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant an inquiry--other than the assertion of the Independent Counsel himself that his information is 'substantial and credible' and 'may constitute grounds for impeachment.' I believe that our failure to conduct so much as a cursory examination before launching an impeachment proceeding is an abdication of our responsibility under Article II of the Constitution of the United States. By delegating that responsibility to the Independent Counsel, we sanction an encroachment upon the Executive Branch that could upset the delicate equilibrium among the three branches of government that is our chief protection against tyranny.”