Scandal

The problem with independent prosecutors is that, given the mount of time they have to investigate an alleged crime, more often than not they end up "creating" a crime which they then feel obligated to charge to justify their effort. This was the case not only in "Plame-gate" but also with "Whitewater". Clinton was "impeached" after being charged with perjury on an un-related matter, not for the original investigation of a real-estate fraud.

"At the end of this process the prosecutor announces that he cannot produce evidence that the conduct he has investigated constituted a crime after all. But all is not lost! Inconsistent testimony is abundant. Hence there have been crimes uncovered: perjury, false statements and obstruction of justice. Serious crimes, to be sure, but usually accompanied by underlying criminal behavior. Thus the elaborate process has been worth it: Bad guys have been unearthed. The special prosecutor can sit tall on his white horse." WSJ (subscription)