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Washington DC - Attorney General John Ashcroft, who recused himself
in the Justice Department investigation of Enron, voiced his apprehension
about CEO Kenneth Lay appearing in front of committees in both the
House and Senate after subpoenas were issued.
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Bill Hancock testifies
before Ashcroft in 2001
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"I'm concerned about the integrity of Congress and I believe
that Mr... er... Kenneth appearing in congress with his name intact
would sully the reputation of that great institution. I'm surprised
he hasn't changed it by now. Does he have no shame? Something must
be done!" pleaded a visibly upset Ashcroft.
On Monday, the Attorney General filed a formal complaint requesting "Mr.
Lxx" change his name previous to his appearance in front of
the Senate Commerce Committee. In lieu of a name change, Ashcroft
suggested curtains be placed atop the Enron CEO or at least over
his name plate.
Lay has publicly refused a name change and suggested the Attorney
General "get out a bit more". He also expressed doubt that
Ashcroft would even know the true meaning of the term.
A bipartisan group led by Senator Mike Crapo of Idaho, and Representative
Dick Gephardt of Missouri strongly oppose the Ashcroft request. "The
Justice Department can conduct their business as they see fit, but
interceding in Congressional hearings is beyond their purview," insisted
Crapo.
Dick added, "I now realize why John has always been so formal
with me. I told him to call me Dick, but he always called me Mr.
Gephardt even at parties. I'm proud of my name dammit. Dick, Dick,
Dick. You hear that Mr. Ashcroft?"
Ashcroft admits in his autobiography that the Nixon presidency were
the most painful years of his life. He has also stated that while
uncomfortable in the Bush administration it is a burden that he will
bear.
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