SCHAKOWSKY JOINS CALL FOR NAMING OF SPECIAL COUNSEL TO INVESTIGATE DISCLOSURE OF CIA OFFICER

SEPTEMBER 30, 2003

SCHAKOWSKY JOINS CALL FOR NAMING OF SPECIAL COUNSEL TO INVESTIGATE DISCLOSURE OF CIA OFFICER

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Chief Deputy Whip, today called for the appointment of a special counsel to investigate allegations that the Bush Administration provided news sources the identity of a CIA employee.

"I am disgusted that someone within the Bush Administration would stoop so low as to reveal the identity of a CIA operative for political payback. What is even more disturbing is President Bush's refusal to support the naming of a special prosecutor to investigate the alleged crime against our national security.

"Does anyone think that Attorney General John Ashcroft is capable of conducting a fair, thorough, and impartial investigation? It has been two months and the Department of Justice is just now launching an official investigation. This is a matter of national security that cannot be left in the hands of the most political Justice Department in our history.

"While in Chicago today, President Bush said, 'I want to know the truth. I want to know who the leakers are.' That is not enough. Such a crime puts lives at risk and threatens our national security and President Bush should be supporting an impartial investigation conducted by someone who does not have close ties to his Administration.

"It appears that the White House wanted to intimidate those who did not agree with the Bush Administration's misguided and failed policies in Iraq. Their attempt misfired. Now those responsible should be held accountable."