Lawmakers debate need for special Sept. 11 commission
A battle of wills raged Tuesday on Capitol Hill over proposals for an independent commission to investigate the events leading to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D., renewed his call for such a commission, and Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said a commission was needed because a series of political and diplomatic developments also had played a role in the events leading to the attacks.
"I believe we need an independent commission, because there's more to be studied and investigated than just intelligence," McCain said.
McCain said other supporters would discuss to what vehicle they might attach language creating a commission as an amendment. Senate Minority Leader Trent Lott, R-Miss., dismissed the idea. "I don't think a commission would serve that good a purpose now."
House Majority Whip Tom DeLay, R-Texas, said it is "irresponsible and an insult" to propose a commission that undercuts the authority of the House and Senate Intelligence committees.
"Let's fight this war. Let's fight the terrorists, not each other," DeLay said.
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