    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [May 25, 2006]
    [Pages 1016-1017]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Department of Justice's Handling of Representative
    William J. Jefferson's Materials
    May 25, 2006

        Over the last several days, the House of Representatives and the
    Department of Justice have attempted to resolve a dispute over the
    execution of a search warrant on the Capitol Hill office of Congressman
    William Jefferson, who is under criminal investigation.
        The Department of Justice's search was part of an important
    investigation of alleged public corruption. At the same time, the
    bipartisan leadership of the House of Representatives believes this
    search violated the constitutional principle of separation of powers and
    the Speech or Debate Clause of the Constitution. They note these
    principles must be adhered to, even in the pursuit of a legitimate
    criminal investigation.
        I recognize these are deeply held views. Our Government has not
    faced such a dilemma in more than two centuries. Yet after days of
    discussions, it is clear these differences will require more time to be
    worked out.
        So today I am directing the Department of Justice to seal all the
    materials recovered from Congressman Jefferson's office for the next 45
    days and not to allow access to anyone involved in the investigation. I
    am also ordering the sealed materials to remain under the custody of the
    Solicitor General, who heads a separate
    office within the Justice Department and is not involved in the
    investigation.
        This period will provide both parties more time to resolve the
    issues in a way that ensures that materials relevant to the ongoing
    criminal investigation are made available to prosecutors in a manner
    that respects the interests of a coequal branch of Government. The
    Justice Department and the House of Representatives should continue
    their discussions and resolve this matter as quickly as possible.
        Let me be clear: Investigating and prosecuting crime is a crucial
    executive responsibility that I take seriously. Those who violate the
    law--including a Member of Congress--should and will be held to account.
    This investigation will go forward, and justice will be served.

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