With both the recent IRS and Associated Press (AP) scandals, I am reminded that we need to be very careful to ensure that those in power cannot use their position of authority to undermine the integrity of the Republic or to intimidate opponents.

It appears that in March of 2010, the IRS started targeting applications from groups applying for tax-exempt status that contained phrases such as “tea party” or “patriot” in the names of the groups.  Targeting any American based on partisan means is unacceptable.  I am very concerned that the actions taken by the IRS are a direct threat to Americans’ First Amendment rights to the freedoms of speech and expression.

I am sure you have also heard about the recent stories involving the Department of Justice monitoring AP phone lines as well as the communications of a Fox News reporter.  This situation has had a further chilling effect, as the AP is now reporting that some of their confidential sources are no longer willing to talk with their reporters.  We must have a truly free press that is unrestricted and able to challenge, and hold accountable, those in power.

I conducted an informal survey on my website in June on the IRS and AP scandals and asked constituents if they believed the government was targeting its citizens.  Thus far, the survey has come back as follows:
• 926 people responded that they believe the federal government sometimes targets people based on their ideologies or political affiliations.
• 251 people said this issue wasn’t the most important to them.
• Only 23 people responded that there was nothing to worry about. The federal government does not target people.

If you have not yet taken the survey and would like to share your opinion with me, please CLICK HERE.

The government has clearly lost the trust of the American people, and rightfully so. We must look out for the integrity of our Republic. If you have any questions about these or any other federal issues, please feel free to contact my office in Washington D.C. at (202) 225-2015, in Hilliard at (614) 771-4968, in Lancaster at (740) 654-2654, or in Wilmington at (937) 283-7049.