On the recordSeptember 16, 1998
those tactics, Mr. Speaker, are tactics of desperation and depravity, for they fail to make the moral distinction between mistakes, sins, and possible crimes. There is a clear distinction in our society, especially for the latter category. That is why for over 200 years we in this constitutional republic have had an adherence to the rule of law. Yet, Mr. Speaker, there are those who, through their scurrilous actions, would try to muddy the waters, try to change the distinctions, try to mitigate the circumstances for what could possibly be crimes. Let us state clearly and unequivocally, Mr. Speaker, for those who join us in this chamber; for those who may watch around the world, a failure to tell the truth under oath is a crime. Not a mistake, not an indiscretion simply, and not simply a sin. It is a crime.
Source
govinfo.gov
