Tipton Blasts Justice Department for AP Probe

Statement

Today, Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) issued this statement following reports that the U.S. Department of Justice obtained work and personal phone records of Associated Press (AP) reporters and editors.

"This has been a troubling week for all Americans who value our First Amendment and know the importance of free speech to the health of our republic. In the midst of the ongoing investigation into what happened in Benghazi and the subsequent cover-up, we have news of the I.R.S. targeting nonprofit civic organizations to silence their voices, and now there are reports that the U.S. Justice Department is spying on reporters and infringing on the freedom of the press. It is no wonder that the American people are cynical of government.

"An unsettling pattern is developing within this Administration, and I will not tolerate it. There will be a full investigation into each of these cases, and where laws have been broken or lies have been told, those responsible should face the consequences of their actions."

This week, Tipton called for a full investigation of the I.R.S. targeting of conservative groups, and expressed concerns that this was occurring more than a year ago.

Tipton has also co-sponsored H.RES. 36 which would establish a select committee to investigate and report on the attack on the United States consulate in Benghazi, Libya on September 11, 2012.

Source