Top Clinton aides testify today on pardon spree

Three former leading White House aides will appear before a congressional panel today to testify about the final days of President…

Three former leading White House aides will appear before a congressional panel today to testify about the final days of President Bill Clinton's controversial last-minute pardon spree.

Former White House counsel Ms Beth Nolan, chief of staff Mr John Podesta and adviser Mr Bruce Lindsey are scheduled to tell the House Government Reform Committee about the contacts and decision-making used in the pardon for fugitive financier Mr Marc Rich.

The pardon has sparked two congressional investigations and a federal criminal inquiry.

Mr Clinton is hoping to put the scandal to rest and waived any executive privilege claims, He gave his former aides approval to testify freely when they appear before the panel even though they are expected to say they opposed the pardon.

READ MORE

The House panel subpoenaed the three aides in its widening investigation of possible influence-peddling or links between campaign donations and the pardon of Mr Rich and others on Mr Clinton's last day in office.

Mr Rich's former wife Denise gave more than $1 million to Democratic causes and $450,000 to the Clinton library.

Among the cases being investigated are those of a convicted swindler and a major cocaine-dealer who paid some $400,000 to Mr Hugh Rodham, Mr Clinton's brother-in-law, to advance their bids for clemency.

Mr Rodham ultimately gave the money back after Mr Clinton and former first lady Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton complained.