Rep. Joe Barton released the following statement after attending the Tea Party's "Audit the IRS Rally" at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday:
"I had a chance to visit with several Texans in the crowd and others from around the country. What I saw on the Capitol lawn was an inspiring display of patriotism and passion, but the people were also concerned about the growing number of scandals surrounding the Obama Administration.
"I am as committed as those who attended the rally when it comes to reining in the IRS, the NSA, the Justice Department and other federal agencies. This is America and you can't target people because of their political beliefs or spy on them on a whim.
"But that is exactly what is happening right now and we are just supposed to accept it. Well, it is wrong and it needs to stop immediately.
"I am working with my colleagues on legislation that will restore balance and properly protect your Constitutional rights."