Political Quotes

“I want to express a concern about the recent discussion, both publicly and in Congress, concerning what has become to be called Filegate--that is, the questions regarding the use of FBI files and the secret, confidential material contained therein. I am deeply troubled. I am troubled because it appears that the reaction of the White House is not to be forthcoming with regard to this crisis. My belief is that the appropriate responses is for the White House to, frankly and directly, respond to the issues, spell out what they did, indicate their corrective action, and put this question behind us. It is not one that should occupy a lot of time with regard to the congressional inquiries. It is not one that should occupy a lot of time with regard to public concerns. It ought to be dealt with and put out of the way. To that end, Senator Hatch, as chairman of the Judiciary Committee, addressed a letter involving pertinent questions to the White House and to the Chief of Staff, Mr. Panetta. That was on June 13. It had included in it what I thought were fair questions, ones reasonably raised by the questions that are involved and asked for the appropriate information. That letter was answered on the 19th, 6 days later. But Chief of Staff Panetta did not choose to respond. Instead, he delegated that to one of the counsel, Jack Quinn. Mr. President, I think that is unfortunate.”