It is obvious the Tribune’s editorial staff is not up to speed concerning the contempt charge levied by Congress against Janet Reno (“The foolish threat against Reno,” Editorial, Aug. 6). FBI Director Louis Freeh and Charles LaBella said public disclosure of a task force memo would be disastrous to the Justice Department’s investigation of alleged campaign finance improprieties by the Democratic National Committee and the Clinton administration.
But contrary to the editorial, Rep. Dan Burton’s committee did not intend to release the memo to the press. In fact Burton and other Republicans on the subcommittee said sensitive materials could be redacted from the document and held for Congress’ eyes only.
The Tribune’s editorial staff would be well served by reviewing the Constitution for what it says about congressional oversight. Janet Reno cannot defy subpoenas and reinterpret law.
