Why Is Congress Given Investigatory Powers? Congressional investigations not only help legislators make better policy decisions, but they are central to the system of checks and balances. Investigatory hearings can uncover presidential abuses of power and corruption, such as the Teapot Dome scandal in the 1920s or Watergate in the 1970s. For what purpose does
Can Congress Investigate The Government? The Constitution says nothing about congressional investigations and oversight, but the authority to conduct investigations is implied since Congress possesses “all legislative powers.” The Supreme Court determined that the framers intended for Congress to seek out information when crafting or reviewing legislation. Can the Senate conduct investigations? Since then, the
What Is Subpoena Ad Testificandum? : a writ commanding a person to appear in court to testify as a witness. What is the difference between subpoena duces tecum and subpoena ad testificandum? The subpoena duces tecum is, in all respects, like the ordinary subpoena ad testificandum with the exception that it concludes with an injunction