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Monday, May 18, 2009
Richard Olivastro :: Townhall.com Columnist
Will Pelosi Remain House Speaker?
by Richard Olivastro
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Interestingly, those last two years include the time frame when Pelosi claims that the CIA misled her and, thus, the Congress. In no instance during Pelosi’s tenure on the committee did she verbalize or document her opposition to CIA interrogation techniques or the briefing content provided to her or others.

When Pelosi rival Jane Harman became the top Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, Harman did take issue with CIA interrogation techniques, and Harman documented her opposition in an early 2003 letter to CIA attorneys. There is no evidence, so far, that Pelosi ever did the same.

In fact, Pelosi admitted as much in December 2007, when she stated "It was my understanding at that time that Congresswoman Harman filed a letter in early 2003 to the CIA to protest the use of such techniques, a protest with which I concurred". (Emphasis Added) Are the American people supposed to infer from Pelosi’s statement, “a protest with which I concurred” that Pelosi reviewed Harman’s letter, approved it or agreed with it – but could not sign it? After all, would not multiple congressional signatories have strengthened the position Harman wrote about in the letter? Why didn’t Pelosi go public with it at the time?

It just may be that Speaker Pelosi’s basic intent these last few weeks was to just spin a bit in order to plug a gap in her own political history in pursuit of political ‘truth commissions’ some Democrats are pushing. But the CIA responded promptly. Leon Panetta released a letter sent to CIA professionals reaffirming that “briefing staff had delivered accurate and complete information to Congress”. That timely action by the former democrat politician boxes Pelosi.

In reality, Nancy Pelosi – back when she was ranking minority member on the House Intelligence Committee - either knew – or should have known – what types of interrogation techniques were in use? That was her responsibility back then as ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee; and, is her responsibility today as Speaker of the House.

Nancy Pelosi has placed herself at center stage. The spotlight must remain on her in search of the truth.

When that determination is clearly finalized, Nancy Pelosi will be able to leave the stage to appreciative applause, and anticipated curtain calls, having earned the admiration and good will of the American people; or, she will be dismissed amid the stilled quiet of dishonor and deserved shame.

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About The Author
Richard Olivastro is a professional member of the National Speakers Association, president of People Dynamics, an executive leadership development company, and founder of Citizens For Change.
 
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Simply To Add
If the CIA lied and mislead Nancy Pelosi, then the same CIA lied and mislead President George W. Bush. Now what does that say about Al Gore's rant overseas, Colin Powell, and the consistent attacks on President Bush by the Democrats. Our historical and transparent President started this fight, so in the words of a courageous President and a superb Vice President, Dick
Cheney, "Bring It On"!! The final bet on the table has been called, and it is time to turn over your cards. Are you hearing me Nancy???

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