ACLJ’s Jay Sekulow testifies IRS ‘out of control’ targeting Americans for ‘personal beliefs’
Jay Sekulow, chief counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), says it is critical to focus on truth and the need for accountability in the ongoing IRS scandal, especially in light of new revelations presented by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). On Wednesday, Sekulow will testify before the U.S. Senate subcommittee on Oversight, Agency Action, Federal Rights and Federal Courts of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The latest GAO report reveals that Americans are still vulnerable to IRS audits. As the GAO put it: “Unfortunately, the IRS has not taken sufficient steps to prevent targeting Americans based on their personal beliefs.” Sekulow and the ACLJ are urging Congress to continue its own investigations. The ACLJ is also calling for the appointment of an independent special counsel.
“We have an arrogant, out-of-control IRS that refuses to cooperate with Congressional investigators,” said Sekulow. “This hearing before the Senate panel is another vital step toward the truth as we learn what happened, hold responsible officials accountable, and take steps to ensure this abuse will never be repeated.”
The ACLJ represents 38 organizations in 22 states in lawsuits accusing the IRS of targeting them. Of those organizations, 29 did not receive tax-exempt status until after enduring lengthy delays, two have their tax-exempt status still pending, and seven withdrew applications due to frustration with the IRS process.
The IRS scandal is a key example of the federal bureaucracy Sekulow discusses in his latest book, Undemocratic. In it, Sekulow explains how the federal bureaucracy, which he calls the “fourth branch” of government, robs Americans of their rights through endless rules and regulations.Undemocratic details crises, including the IRS scandal, as examples of unruly federal agencies and outlines how Americans can fight back and reclaim personal freedoms.
Led by Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow, the American Center for Law and Justice focuses on constitutional law and is based in Washington.
Tea Party deserves the IRS targeting? Some folks feel that way. But how about Progressive groups? Occupy Wall Street?
