While the Senate investigative committee has pledged a thorough probe, it’s done little so far. In the 1970s, after Watergate and revelations of controversial surveillance and covert programs, the Senate created the Church Committee to investigate. As a result, when government is divided — different parties control the executive and legislative branches — congressional investigations multiply. And when government is united, congressional investigations stall or disappear. But to check the executive branch, Congress must actually investigate, and do so competently.

Source: Washington Post April 27, 2017 11:03 UTC