Kit Bond: “I am a senior member of the Senate Banking Committee, and there are very serious questions which have been raised about…”

“I am a senior member of the Senate Banking Committee, and there are very serious questions which have been raised about possible abuse in the executive branch of the power of the Federal banking regulators and of the White House. Possible insider dealing at the Madison Guaranty Savings and Loan is an issue that needs to be resolved by the special prosecutor in Arkansas. There is also another tragic death that has to be investigated. But there is an issue clamoring for congressional airing under our system of checks and balances, and that is: Has there been any misuse or abuse of executive power in this administration over the investigation? This is one of the most important responsibilities in our system of checks and balances, and that is to make sure that no branch of Government is allowed to misuse its power. The Constitution is clear that this Senate, as well as the House, has a responsibility to be a check on the misuse of executive power. I believe it is in everyone's interest, the public's, the President's and, foremost, the Nation's interest that we air these issues out and get them behind us. The President has stated forcefully that he has nothing to hide, that he has done nothing wrong. Then let us question the administration officials who stand accused of ethical breaches, give them an opportunity to explain their actions to the public and move on to other issues.”