Democratic Whip Hoyer on Foley

[Monkeyman]

"Former Representive Mark Foley's behavior is abhorrent and his actions should be fully and immediately investigated. But it is now becoming equally clear that the House Republican leadership knew of at least some of Mr. Foley's interactions with Pages and, by their inaction, badly failed their responsibility to the childern whom they have a duty to protect. It was inappropriate and irresponsible for the leadership, who have no professional training in such matters, to determine that Foley's messages were simply 'over friendly' and dismiss them."

"In addition, the fact that the Republican Member of Congress in charge of the Page program, Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL) , failed to include the Democratic Member, Rep. Dale Kildee (D-MI), in confronting Mr. Foley and failed to initiate an investigation suggest that protecting Mr. Foley's political career was a higher priority for Republicans than protecting Pages."

"Onnce again, this Republican leadership failed to ask tough questions, conduct responsible oversight and hold people accountable for wrongdoing. But this time, their failure to act responsibly put at risk young people directly under the House's care."

"The cover-up and failure to vigorously investigate this matter prolonged the time in which Pages were put at risk. I know the American people will find this totally unacceptable."

"Both the House Ethics Committee and the FBI must thoroughly and quickly inveatigate Mr. Foley , as well as who knew what and when House Members, including the Republican leadership."

Sent to me today from a friend flying with Pelosi to Calf.