Blumenauer Issues Statement On Commutation Of Scooter Libby

Statement

BLUMENAUER ISSUES STATEMENT ON COMMUTATION OF SCOOTER LIBBY

Today Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) issued the following statement on the commutation of Scooter Libby by President Bush:

"To say I'm disappointed with the President's decision to commute Scooter Libby's felony prison sentence is an understatement.

"If Paris Hilton served time for her reckless personal behavior, Scooter Libby should serve his time for lying to investigators and engaging in one of the worst cover ups since Watergate. President Bush's action today tells America that it's ok to lie, mislead, and obstruct justice, as long as you are loyal to his Administration.

"Instead of commuting and by default sanctioning this obstruction, he should come clean with the American people about his Administration's role in outing a covert operative for political reasons. After all, the courts, with Libby's conviction, determined there was a role, and this shameful decision by the President does not change that fact.

"It is time for the President and his Administration to stop covering up and stop misleading the American people and representatives in Congress. Instead, it is time to restore some openness and accountability in government, which belongs to all Americans, not just his selected few appointees."

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