33. Editorial Note

On February 4, 1975, Representative Robert N. Giaimo (D–Connecticut) introduced H. Res. 138, proposing creation of a House of Representatives’ Select Committee on Intelligence to investigate the intelligences agencies. The resolution, approved by the House 280–120 on February 19, directed the Committee to probe the collection, analysis, use, and cost of intelligence information, allegations of illegal activities of the intelligence agencies both domestically and abroad, the need for improved Congressional oversight of the Intelligence Community, and possible safeguards for U.S. citizens against improper actions by intelligence agencies. Following the vote, Speaker of the House Carl B. Albert (D–Oklahoma) named as members seven Democrats and three Republicans. Representative Lucien N. Nedzi (D–Michigan), who chaired the standing Intelligence Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee, was named as Chairman.

House Republicans objected to the committee’s composition, arguing that the “heavily Democratic makeup of the committee would make the inquiry look like a ‘partisan effort’ bent on overlooking any sins of the CIA, the FBI and other agencies under the Kennedy and Johnson administrations.” “We want a thorough job for Democratic administrations as well as Republican,” stated Representative Robert McClory (R–Illinois), “We don’t want to have any cover-up of earlier activity.” Giaimo answered this criticism by denying that the Committee would be used for partisan purposes and defended its composition, which remained as above. (George Lardner, Jr., “House Establishes Special Panel to Probe CIA,” Washington Post, February 20, 1975, page A2)