U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08) today made the following statement regarding the resignation of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales:

“Attorney General Gonzales’ reign over the Justice Department was nothing short of shameful, and this resignation is long past due.  Mr. Gonzales evaded Congressional oversight and betrayed the public trust for three years.  Now he will be gone from office, but his actions will not go unanswered by this Congress.  We will continue to investigate the abuses that were perpetrated under his rule and attempt to rebuild the public’s confidence in our justice system.   

“The confirmation process of a new Attorney General will set a stage for Congress to question the Administration’s abuse of the FISA law.  It is another chance for Congress to return appropriate safeguards to the civil rights and liberties that make up the foundation of our democracy.”

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