Meehan: Contempt Resolution Seeks Public Accountability and Justice for Terry Family

Statement

U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan (PA-07) today issued the following statement regarding the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee's approval of a resolution holding Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt for refusal to turn over subpoenaed documents related to Operation Fast and Furious:

"It is unfortunate that it has come to this. Contempt is the last thing any Member of the Committee wished to do. However, Congress and the Oversight Committee have been very patient in our investigation and have made many attempts to acquire documents without resorting to subpoenas or contempt proceedings. So far, Congress has received only 7,000 of the 80,000 germane documents that are available to the Inspector General, and of those provided most are heavily redacted or unrelated to Fast and Furious. They do not shed light on what today's contempt resolution is fundamentally about: why and how did the Justice Department -- admittedly -- provide false information to Congress and then change its mind.

"What we are seeking is justice for Border Agent Brian Terry, slain with a Fast and Furious weapon. The Terry family and the public deserve to know who knew what and when did they know it. We are seeking to ensure Justice Department whistleblowers who brought to light the irresponsible Fast and Furious operation do not face retribution or punishment.

"The Committee issued a lawful, narrowly tailored subpoena, and the Justice Department must comply. The Committee has continually narrowed the scope of its inquiry in order to encourage compliance with the subpoena. It is my sincere hope that the Department will render this contempt resolution moot by providing the documents before the full House votes next week."

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