Udall Statement on Gonzales Resignation

Statement

UDALL STATEMENT ON GONZALES RESIGNATION

Today, U.S. Representative Tom Udall, D-N.M., released the following statement in reaction to the resignation of U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales:

"As Attorney General, Alberto Gonzales is bound by an extraordinary duty to seek justice in accordance with our Constitution and on behalf of the American people -- a noble duty superseding any obligation of loyalty to party or administration. Over the last few months it became obvious to all that Alberto Gonzales was incapable of fulfilling this duty, and his conduct cast serious doubts on his willingness to protect the basic inherent guarantees and freedoms of every citizen.

"Although he has now resigned, serious questions remain over Gonzales' tenure at the Department of Justice and I believe Congress still has an obligation to determine the legality of Attorney General Gonzales' confusing, conflicting and misleading actions and statements."

On July 31, 2007, Udall was one of six former prosecutors in the House to introduce a resolution that would require the House Judiciary Committee to investigate whether Attorney General Alberto Gonzales should be impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors.

Currently serving his fifth term in the House, Udall previously served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney (1978-1981) and New Mexico Attorney General (1990-1998) during which time he presided as the President of the National Association of Attorneys General.

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