May 13,2013

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Sean Neary/Meaghan Smith
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Baucus Comments on Accusations that IRS Targeted Political Groups for Greater Oversight

MEMORANDUM

To:                  Reporters and Editors
From:              The Communications Office of Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.)
Re:                   Baucus Comments on Accusations that IRS Targeted Political Groups for Greater Oversight

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) made the following statement today in response to reports that Internal Revenue Service singled out groups seeking tax-exempt status based upon their political affiliation.

“These actions by the IRS are an outrageous abuse of power and a breach of the public’s trust.  Targeting groups based on their political views is not only inappropriate but it is intolerable.

“Americans expect the IRS to do its job without passion or prejudice.  We need to get to the bottom of what happened here.  I want to see all the facts.  We need to know who knew what, and exactly what mistakes were made.  The American people have questions for the IRS and I intend to get answers.  I want to review the Inspector General’s report first, but the IRS should be prepared for a full investigation into this matter by the Senate Finance Committee.  The IRS will now be the ones put under additional scrutiny.”

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