Introduction
Being held in contempt of Congress is a serious charge that can have far-reaching consequences. It essentially means that an individual has failed to comply with a subpoena or has obstructed the work of Congress in some way. In this article, we will explore what contempt of Congress entails, the potential penalties for being found in contempt, and some notable examples of individuals who have faced this charge.
What is Contempt of Congress?
Contempt of Congress is the act of obstructing the work of Congress or failing to comply with a subpoena issued by Congress. This can include refusing to testify before a congressional committee, withholding documents or information, or providing false or misleading testimony.
Potential Penalties
If someone is found in contempt of Congress, they can face a variety of penalties. These can include fines, imprisonment, or both. Congress also has the ability to refer contempt charges to the Justice Department for prosecution.
Notable Examples
One of the most famous examples of contempt of Congress is the case of Attorney General Eric Holder. In 2012, Holder became the first sitting Cabinet member to be held in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over documents related to the Fast and Furious gun trafficking investigation.
Another notable example is former White House Counsel Harriet Miers, who was held in contempt of Congress in 2007 for refusing to testify before a House committee investigating the firing of U.S. attorneys.
Conclusion
Being held in contempt of Congress is a serious charge that can have significant consequences. It is important for individuals to understand their obligations to Congress and to comply with subpoenas and requests for information. Failure to do so can result in legal action and potential penalties.
