Like many Idahoans, I am concerned and troubled that the IRS has improperly scrutinized certain political organizations, particularly those with "tea party' and "patriot' in their names. There is no excuse for this action, and Congress must act swiftly and decisively to ensure those who were responsible and had knowledge of the selective audits are appropriately punished.
In response I signed a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Jack Lew expressing deep concern with the targeting and requesting more information regarding the activities of those involved. I also have cosponsored H.R. 1950, which would help prevent further politically-motivated discrimination by increasing criminal penalties for such behavior. It would impose a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
As more information about this story comes to light in the coming weeks and months, it is important that Congress and those responsible in the Administration act to restore the trust of the American people. Taxpayers must know that the IRS is doing its job, which is to collect the necessary revenue needed to run the government, not pick winners and losers based on political leanings.