Dems Block McCain Resolution On Special Counsel For Leaks

Source: The Hill

By Daniel Strauss - 06/12/12 12:44 PM ET

Senate Democrats blocked a resolution introduced by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) calling for Attorney General Eric Holder to introduce an outside special counsel to investigate a number of recent military and intelligence leaks.

McCain introduced a resolution Tuesday expressing the Senate's support for Holder to appoint a special prosecutor. But Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) objected after McCain asked for unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to consideration of his resolution.

"What is at issue here is whether or not we are going to give an opportunity for U.S. attorneys, professionals in their fields, to handle this particular inquiry," Wyden said. "And I see no evidence, Mr. President, that the way U.S. attorneys are handling this investigation at this time is not with the highest standards of professionalism."

McCain said that recent military leaks and intelligence leaks warranted outside legal counsel to investigate the leaks.

Read more: http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/232265-dems-block-mccain-resolution-on-special-counsel-for-leaks