(Image Source: Department of Justice

BY MATTHEW PICHT

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

 

The Congressional investigation of “Operation Fast and Furious”, a botched gun-trafficking operation, came to a dramatic head on the House floor today. CNN has the headline.

“The Republican-led House of Representatives has voted to hold the Attorney General of the United States Eric Holder in criminal contempt of Congress.”
 

The House vote holds Holder in contempt for refusing to turn over documents related to “Fast and Furious.” Republican House member Jason Chafettz of Utah says he is proud contempt charges were brought against Holder.  Here’s Fox Business with the video.

“It’s sad that we got to this day, we have no other choice, but we as a body, as an institution, as a separate branch of government, have a duty and obligation. And we are fulfilling that today.”

In a defiant response to the censure, Holder says his only priority has been protecting the American people.

“Others, however, have devoted their time and their attention to making reckless charges, unsupported by fact, and to advancing truly absurd, truly absurd conspiracy theories.”

Dozens of Democrats, including House Minority Speaker Nancy Pelosi, walked out of the House in protest. She then accused Republicans of unfairly politicizing the “Fast and Furious” investigation for their own gain.

“What is happening today on the floor of the House is a misuse of power. It is an abuse of power, and it is the wrong thing to do.”

On its own, a criminal contempt measure won’t accomplish much. Holder’s office would be responsible for prosecuting any litigation related to this vote. But the House is also holding Holder in civil contempt, and as Fox News reports, that censure might lead to action.

“And that’s the one Issa and Republicans want because it allows them to go to a court on their own and try and get these documents.”
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/06/28/house-holds-holder-contempt/

But a blogger for Wired says, that’s not going to happen anytime soon.

“If House Republicans pursue this option, some documents may be turned over, but this would likely be long after public interest has waned … Now, that doesn’t mean we won’t see any documents arising out of a civil suit.  But don’t hold your breath, and don’t expect any charges.”