| The rules, passed by House
Republicans earlier this year, mean that complaints
are automatically dismissed if they committee reaches
a stalemate, or if the committee does not act within
45 days.
The new chairman of the committee, a Republican Doc
Hastings (R-WA), has said he would like to extend it
to 90.
Under the previous rules, any tie vote on a complaint
would spark an immediate investigation. Under current
rules, a tie vote dismisses one. Because of the rules
change, Democrats have refused to participate on the
committee.
Republicans will now try to force the Democrats' hand,
saying that their unwillingness to accept the new rules
is preventing an investigation.
Democrats are said to be very suspicious of the new
moves towards an investigation; they believe Republicans
are playing a political game with rules governing House
ethics.
A statement from Democrats is expected shortly.
There are five Republicans and five Democrats on the
committee. Three Republican members who joined with
Democrats in rebuking DeLay last year were summarily
removed and replaced with DeLay allies.
Two of the Republican members added to the committee
this year—Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Rep. Tom
Cole (R-TX)—have given to DeLay's legal defense
fund. Smith donated $10,000 and Cole gave $5,000.
Article originally published Apr. 20, 2005.
|
