On December 18, 2005, John Conyers, a Democratic congressman from Michigan, introduced H. Res. 635 to the floor of the House of Representatives. The resolution would establish the Select Committee on Administration Predetermination to Go to War and Manipulation of Intelligence, with the mission to investigate the Administration’s intent to go to war before congressional authorization, manipulation of pre-war intelligence, encouraging and countenancing torture, retaliating against critics, and to make recommendations regarding grounds for possible impeachment.

Sounds like a good idea, doesn’t it? Oh, sure, the resolution could use some updating so as to include investigation of illegal spying by the Bush White House against innocent Americans, but an amendment could easily update that.

So, how come a Democratic representative from California has withdrawn support from the resolution?

Zoe Lofgren, who represents California’s 16th District, endorsed H. Res. 635 on December 22, 2005 with her co-sponsorship. On January 31, 2006, she withdrew her support even though, on that very same day, other Democratic members of the House of Representatives added new co-sponsorships to the bill.

What gives, Representative Lofgren? Generally, Zoe Lofgren is one of the more reasonable members of the House of Representatives, so there may be a good explanation. But, without such an explanation, it doesn’t look good. Doesn’t this Democrat in the House of Representatives think that the alleged crimes of George W. Bush should be investigated?

Stay tuned. I’ve called the office of Representative Lofgren, and have been referred to their press relations aide, Kyra Jennings. Let’s see if Ms. Jennings can explain Representative Lofgren’s rationale. Expect an update soon…