[rottndog]

Was Hastings actually prosecuted and convicted?

If he is in fact a convicted felon, under the law he would be ineligible for the security clearances necessary to run that committee.

Of course that has never stopped the dems before.

[nmh]

Since when do Demoncrats play by the rules?

Ever seen Clinton's medical history?

Ever seen dufus, Kerry's military record?

[NYFriend]

I'm fuzzy on this, but I think Members of Congress are exempt from security clearance requirements, just like the President is. It comes with the office. However, both Houses have come up with their own requirements for Members accessing, receiving, and using Classified information.

It actually makes sense, theoretically. Members of Congress are the people's representatives. They should have access to all information about government, and should be able to share it with the public. If they want to restrict themselves (via their leadership) that's their business. If Congressmen can't be trusted, who's fault is that?

[free_at_jsl.com]

The bad thing about security clearances is that if your job (as an elected official) requires one, you will get it no matter what. Bill Clinton (and his cabinet) was a perfect example of this.

[Jeffrey_D.]

It's obvious this Hastings is not gay.....sarc/

[Jeffrey_D.]

It's obvious; Hastings is not gay.....sarc/

[Wally_Kalbacken]

He was acquitted by a federal jury, though there was strong suspicion of tampering. He was Impeached by the House, Convicted by the Senate.