Friday, May 17, 2013

IRS scandal to silence the opposition


IG On IRS Scandal: ‘Clear Evidence’ of Wrongdoing


(CNSNews.com) - In his prepared opening statement as a House hearing on Friday, J. Russell George, Treasury Inspector for the Tax Administration, said his audit found “clear evidence” that the allegations of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) targeting conservative groups seeking tax exempt status are true.
“Was the IRS using inappropriate criteria in its review of organizations applying for tax-exempt status?” George said. “Yes. Was the IRS delaying their applications? Yes. And finally, did the IRS ask inappropriate and unnecessary questions of applicant? Yes.”
The House Ways and Means Committee hearing focused on George’s May 14, 2012, IG report and the testimony of Acting IRS Commissioner Steve Miller.
Miller told the committee that he had not prepared a written statement, but he would answer questions. He categorized the broadening scandal at the agency by blaming it on personnel making mistakes.
“Foolish mistakes were made,” Miller said.
Committee Chairman Dave Camp (R-Mich) had a different characterization of the charges against the IRS.
“This revelation goes against the very principles of free speech and liberty upon which this country was founded,” Camp said. “The blatant disregard with which the agency treated Congress and the American taxpayer raises serious concerns about leadership at IRS.”

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