GOP leader pushes for special counsel to investigate Clinton emails

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) is doubling down on his push for a special counsel to investigate Hillary Clinton’s email practices while secretary of State in the wake of a top watchdog report.

“I just have to say the conduct of the former secretary demonstrates why people just don’t trust her,” the Senate’s No. 2 Republican said Thursday. “Her intention has been to obstruct the public’s right to know.”

{mosads}Cornyn’s comments come after the State Department inspector general said that Clinton took steps to make sure her personal email account wasn’t “accessible” while she was secretary of State.

Cornyn said the report proves an independent counsel is needed.

“I’ve called for the appointment of a special counsel, because it’s clear that the attorney general who serves at the pleasure of the President Obama is going to have very little incentive or intention to pursue the appropriate investigation,” he said.

Cornyn has repeatedly accused President Obama and White House officials of trying to influence the FBI and Department of Justice by making public comments on Clinton’s use of a private email server.

The 83-page inspector general report released Wednesday provides fresh ammunition for Clinton critics on the scandal, which has dogged her campaign.

Cornyn said the report “makes clear” that Clinton and her staff wouldn’t be interviewed by State Department investigators.

“To say that she’s cooperating with an investigation by the inspector general of the State Department and then refusing to be interviewed is just — well, let’s call it what it is. It’s a lie,” he added.

According to the report, five of 26 aides responded to questionnaires from the inspector general’s office. Clinton also declined to be interviewed.