Pelosi Statement on Need for Special Counsel on Unauthorized Disclosure of CIA Officer

September 30, 2003

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today at a news conference in the Capitol:

“As a member of the Intelligence Committee for 10 years, including two years as ranking Democrat, I know full well the risks taken by courageous clandestine intelligence officers and the need to have their identities protected.

“There have been reports that senior members of the Administration have broken the law by disclosing to journalists the identity of a member of the CIA’s clandestine service. These actions can not be tolerated.

“Few secrets are more closely guarded by the United States than the sources and methods of intelligence collection. Those who revealed the name of the CIA officer have neither an appreciation of, nor a respect for, the dangerous circumstances in which clandestine officers often live and work. Protecting the identity of these clandestine officers is an essential part of ensuring their ability to do their jobs safely and effectively.

“An independent investigation of this despicable matter must be undertaken immediately. It must be thorough, and it must be beyond question in terms of the vigor with which it is pursued.

“Given allegations about the involvement of senior White House officials and the past close association between the Attorney General and one of those officials, the investigation should be headed by a person independent of the Administration.

“If there ever was a case for the appointment of a special counsel, this is it.”

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