Politics

Senate Dems block condemnation of IRS targeting

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Senate Democrats blocked a resolution condemning the targeting of tea party groups by the Internal Revenue Service Wednesday, according to Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul.

The resolution Paul introduced Tuesday condemns the targeting of tea party and other affected groups. The resolution further calls for investigations and criminal charges against those who authorized or were involved in targeting people on the basis of their political beliefs.

“This resolution is not about Republican vs. Democrat or conservative vs. liberal. It is about arrogant and unrestrained government vs. the rule of law. The First Amendment cannot and should not be renegotiated depending on which party holds power,” Paul said in a statement.

Paul further expressed disappointment in his Democratic colleagues for placing a hold on his resolution.

“Each senator took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution, yet Senate Democrats chose to block my resolution and thus refused to condemn the IRS for trampling on our First Amendment rights. I am incredibly disappointed in Washington’s party politics and I am determined to hold the IRS accountable for these unjust acts.”

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