GOP blocks Dem effort to chastise Issa's conduct

STEPHEN OHLEMACHER

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans have blocked an attempt by Democrats to chastise California Republican Darrell Issa (EYE'-suh) for his conduct at a committee hearing.

Issa abruptly adjourned a hearing of the House Oversight Committee Wednesday. He instructed committee staff to turn off the microphone of the committee's top Democrat, congressman Elijah Cummings of Maryland.

The hearing was on the improper targeting of tea party groups by the Internal Revenue Service. Cummings was trying to say that Republicans have overblown the controversy.

Ohio Democrat Marcia Fudge offered a resolution condemning Issa for his, quote, "offensive and disrespectful manner."

But the House voted 211-186 to block the resolution.