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attorney general, C.I.A. secret program, Cheney, Congress, Eric Holder, Face the Nation, government, government and politics, News, Politics, Washington
The New York Times reported over the weekend that Vice President Dick Cheney ordered a counterterrorism program be withheld from congressional oversight for almost eight years, following the 9-11 attacks.
Because not even the top members of congressional intelligence committees members were informed, some in Washington, including Senator Diane Feinstein (D – California), think the law might have been broken.
Will Cheney be investigated?
Attorney General Eric Holder is allegedly “leaning” now toward a Special Prosecutor, according to Sunday’s Face the Nation. Senator Jeff Sessions (R – Alabama), on the same program, referred to “sources, sources” and the fact that nothing about the plan or Cheney’s involvement (or even if he was involved) can be confirmed. But, when questioned about whether or not officials will be looking into the matter, Sessions, on the same program said, “I’m sure it will be.”
If Cheney did order withholding intelligence info from the Congress, was it illegal?
That will be another matter that will probably herald hearings and debates. The current law requiring Congressional oversight and approval of intelligence actions is vague, permitting allowance for national security.
Links:
Cheney Is Linked to Concealment of C.I.A. Project | NY Times
Feinstein Says Law May Have Been Broken | NY Times
Face the Nation – Sunday, July 12, 2009 | CBS News
Cheney ordered intel withheld from Congress-Senator | Reuters
