The only reason most Americans have even heard of the IRS and other scandals is because of the hearings. It keeps the issue in the public eye if nothing else.
Yes, I wish they had a guy that could close out these things with indictments. Issa has certainly been a disappointment in that department. Besides repealing Obamacare, hearings are one of their more useful functions.
They are useful only when someone goes to jail. Otherwise, it degenerates into “He’s a crook” kabuki theater.
Am I cynical? You betcha!