Resigning Attorney General Eric Holder was hailed Thursday by President Barack Obama for doing a “superb” job, but Rep. Darrell Issa blasted him as an overly political and divisive figurehead.
“Eric Holder is the most divisive U.S. Attorney General in modern history and, in a vote supported by 17 Democratic House members, has the dubious historic distinction of being the first attorney general held in criminal contempt by the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Issa, a Republican who represents north San Diego county.
“Time and again, Eric Holder administered justice as the political activist he describes himself as instead of an unbiased law enforcement official.”
Holder, 63, is expected to remain on the job until a successor is named and confirmed by the Senate. Obama hailed him for his work prosecuting terrorism cases while overseeing a reduction in crime nationwide and protecting civil rights.
But Holder also has also drawn drew criticism, notably from Republicans, particularly when he declined to provide Congress with documents related to the failed “Fast and Furious” gun-trafficking operation, leading to the Congressional contempt vote.
Issa, chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, said Holder effectively eroded confidence in the legal system.
“Through strong-arming reporters, practically ignoring high level wrongdoing, blocking his own agency Inspector General’s access to information, and overseeing a Department that attempted to stonewall Congressional oversight with denials of what is now established fact, Attorney General Holder abused his office and failed to uphold the values of our Constitution,” he said.
But Rep. Xavier Becerra, D-Los Angeles, hailed Holder’s work, saying he “displayed unshakeable leadership and commitment to keeping Americans safe from the threat of terrorism, prosecuting perpetrators of violent crimes and working tirelessly to defend the civil rights of all Americans.”
The names of two California political figures have already surfaced in talk of a replacement — most notably state Attorney General Kamala Harris. Despite such talk, Harris said she is focused on her current job.
“I am honored to even be mentioned, but intend to continue my work for the people of California as attorney general,” she said. “I am focused on key public safety issues including transnational gangs, truancy and recidivism.”
University of California President Janet Napolitano, who served alongside Holder when she was the U.S. Homeland Security secretary, is also former attorney general and U.S. Attorney in Arizona.
She said Holder “leaves behind an outstanding record in seeking justice and equal rights for all Americans.”
“He fought tirelessly to honor our Constitution and to protect civil rights across the nation,” Napolitano said. “It is clear, in my view, that the nation has been enriched from Eric’s decision to enter into public service. I wish him the best as he transitions back to his life as a private citizen.”
— City News Service
