Rep. Burton's Critics Fall Short Again
Gingrich says he is considering a full House vote on the immunity question
WASHINGTON (AllPolitics, May 14) -- House Democrats failed Thursday in an attempt to declare that Rep. Dan Burton (R-Ind.) "brought discredit upon the House" while leading his campaign finance investigation.
The resolution, introduced by House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt (D-Mo.), was tabled -- killed, effectively -- without debate on a 223-196 vote that broke down along party lines. Only three Democrats supported the tabling motion.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Newt Gingrich told The Associated Press he is considering a full House vote to grant immunity to four prospective witnesses in the campaign finance probe. Democrats angry at Burton have blocked the immunity grant so far.
"It would be an educational experience for the American people," said Gingrich, who noted it would mean taking the witnesses' testimony on the House floor.
On Wednesday, Democrats on the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee that Burton chairs also fell short in their efforts to have the chairman removed as the panel's head. As chairman, Burton was able to use his powers to block the attempt by the committee's ranking Democrat, Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.)
Gephardt's resolution criticized the Indiana Republican for selectively editing the Webster Hubbell prison phone conversation his office released last week. The Democratic leader also claimed Burton has abused his subpoena power.
The future of the House campaign finance probe is now under consideration by Gingrich, who could seek the floor vote on immunity, or take the investigation away from Burton and move all or part of it to another committee. Another option would be ordering a lesser role for the controversial chairman.
Whatever move he makes, Gingrich does not want to embarrass Burton and continues to support the embattled chairman.
It is unlikely the speaker will make a decision quickly. In the meantime, the GOP leadership is expected assail Democrats for blocking immunity for four prospective witnesses.
After Democrats blocked immunity Wednesday for a second time, Gingrich said he was "disappointed and saddened" and Republicans will "do whatever we have to do" to tell the American people that laws have been broken.
If moved, the investigation would most likely be handed to the House Oversight Committee, chaired by Rep. Bill Thomas (R-Calif.), where there is a two-thirds Republican majority and Democratic votes would not be necessary for issues like grants of immunity.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
|
News
Democrats