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“ Democratic priorities are clear: we will fight to get the economy back on track, we will create jobs, and we will help unemployed workers. ” |
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Pelosi: President’s Lowering of Ethical Standard in CIA Leak Case Unacceptable
Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in response to President Bush’s demand for a criminal conviction before he will fire White House staff caught leaking the identity of a CIA clandestine service officer. For months, the President had said that he would fire anyone involved in the disclosure of a CIA clandestine service officer’s identity:
“The President has now lowered the ethical standard for White House employees, ‘if indicted, you can serve.’ The Republicans in the House tried that disgraceful standard for their leaders earlier this year, but were forced to change when the public demanded a higher standard.
“The American people will again demand a higher standard for those who work in the White House. Presidential advisers are not given access to classified information to play politics with the lives of intelligence sources or our national security.
“Disclosing a covert officer's identity was a serious abuse of power. The Bush White House’s arrogant stonewalling and ever-changing statements are unacceptable. Regardless of the results of the ongoing criminal investigation, if Karl Rove, Lewis Libby, and any other White House official confirmed the identity of a CIA clandestine service officer, they should be fired.”
“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”
Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi
