FOR NATIONAL DESKS: Jeff Gannon makes statement on House Judiciary Committee Vote of March 16, 2005

Jeff Gannon speaks out about the "No" vote on further (special) investigation of journalist's credentials (REF: 3-3-2005 H.Res. 136)

Contact: e-mail media.relations@jeffgannon.com

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2005

The following is a statement by Jeff Gannon, former White House correspondent for Talon News on Wednesday’s vote on House Resolution 136*

"I am pleased that the House Judiciary Committee is satisfied that proper procedures were followed with regard to my admittance to White House press briefings. It appears to me that a strong majority on the committee has decided that investigating the background of journalists beyond the standards already in place is unnecessary and perhaps poses a threat to a free and independent press.

”I commend members who recognized that a dangerous precedent might have been set were unfounded and partisan allegations been allowed to be used as a means to undermine the free press so essential to our democracy. The Founders believed freedom of the press to be so important that its protection was enshrined in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights.

”I hope this vote will put these issues to rest and allow me to return to my work as a journalist.

“It is unfortunate that this matter has diverted the attention of Congress away from the pressing challenges that face our nation, but I appreciate the results of the vote taken on Wednesday and thank the members for their consideration."

*H.Res. 136, Directing the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to transmit to the House of Representatives not later than 14 days after the date of the adoption of this resolution documents in the possession of those officials relating to the security investigations and background checks relating to granting access to the White House of James D. Guckert (also known as Jeff Gannon).
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Jeff Gannon is the former White House correspondent for Talon News.