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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary


For Immediate Release December 3, 1998

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

When the Judiciary Committee began this process more than three months ago, Chairman Hyde reminded America of the Committee's solemn constitutional obligations in the impeachment process. As perhaps the most significant act Congress can take, the impeachment process must be fair, deliberate, non-partisan and responsible.

Today's letter from the Committee once again demonstrates that they have not met the standard they set for themselves. In the past week, the Committee has asked the President to respond to specific allegations, dramatically expanded their inquiry, and now have apparently withdrawn allegations. The Committee's erratic behavior leaves the fundamental focus of this investigation unclear. Their actions have been chaotic, partisan and irresponsible, fundamentally limiting the President's ability to present a coherent defense. At this late date, we still don't know what the Committee is charging, or for that matter, who is in charge.

Once the President's counsel have had an opportunity to consider the Committee's letter, we will respond directly.

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