House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi had a tough message for Republicans Thursday after GOP lawmakers pushed through legislation to create a special committee to investigate the Benghazi attacks.
"Republicans' unending eagerness to exploit these deaths is disrespectful to their families and unworthy of the American people," Pelosi, D-Calif., said. "Our nation deserves better than yet another deeply partisan and political review."
And, she said, "It is clear that House Republicans will do anything to divert attention away from their failed leadership and do-nothing record."
Democrats continue to mourn with the families of those who were killed in the 2012 attacks, and noted "we must always act in a manner that respects their memory and works to prevent future loss of life."
But, Pelosi said, "It is disappointing that Republicans blocked a proposal offered by Democrats on the House floor today to ensure that this committee is truly bipartisan and fair – a proposal that would have allowed Democrats a real and equal voice on the committee, including on the issuance of subpoenas, the manner in which witnesses would be questioned and deposed, and the specific protocols governing how documents and other information would be obtained, used, and potentially released by the committee.
"It is clear that House Republicans will do anything to divert attention away from their failed leadership and do-nothing record. As they work to feed the most conspiracy-obsessed elements of their base, millions of Americans are languishing thanks to Republicans' refusal to act on the urgent business before our nation: renewing emergency unemployment insurance, raising the minimum wage, and creating jobs."