Opposition in the United States Senate today refused to hold Alberto Gonzales accountable for his actions as Attorney General. A majority of Republicans, joined by independent Joe Lieberman, voted to turn a blind eye to the wrongdoing of Mr. Gonzales.

People For the American Way President Ralph G. Neas issued the following statement:

“Today’s vote shows that some Republicans are as willing as ever to put blind partisan loyalty to President Bush ahead of the interests of the American people. Every day that Alberto Gonzales remains Attorney General, greater harm is done to the Department of Justice and the people’s faith in their top law enforcement official. It’s shameful.

“It’s especially infuriating that some Senators seem to understand the damage being done, but still do nothing to stop it. Even some of those who have publicly voiced their concerns seem to have lost the courage of their convictions. Once again they capitulated to the Republican leadership. Voters should remember how disingenuous these Senators were when Election Day rolls around.

“Today, People For the American Way delivered almost 50,000 petitions to Capitol Hill calling for Congress to hold Alberto Gonzales accountable. This Attorney General has no credibility with the American people. Those who vote to excuse his actions shouldn’t have much more.

“Regardless of today’s disappointing vote, the House and Senate should both continue their investigations into the politicization and abuses of power in the Department of Justice.”

People For the American Way and its activists have been working to replace Alberto Gonzales with an Attorney General who respects the Constitution and the rule of law. >.