Rep. Wilson After Clinton Testimony: 'Unanswered Questions Remain'

At a House Committee hearing on the September attacks in Benghazi, Libya, Rep. Joe Wilson had the opportunity to question Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Wilson asked Clinton why she was not the person who appeared before the media to discuss the attacks (see video for a portion of their conversation).

Clinton stated that she was more concerned with conducting an investigation and that appearing on Sunday talk shows is not one of her "favorite things."

Clinton had a contentious day. She had a sharp exchange with Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson as well as with South Carolina's Rep. Jeff Duncan.

Republicans have been harshly critical of the Obama Administration's handling of the attack. UN Ambassador Susan Rice initially said that the attack on the consulate was spontaneous and a result of outrage by local residents upset over an anti-Muslim film. Subsequently, it was learned that was not the case and the attack was coordinated and planned, the degree to which is still being ascertained.

Rice was mentioned as a possible candidate to replace Clinton, but she removed herself from consideration when it became clear that many Republicans, including Sen. Lindsey Graham would fight her nomination.

Wilson released the following statement after the hearing:

“Earlier today, Secretary Clinton testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee regarding the devastating terrorist attack in Benghazi, Libya, which resulted in the deaths of Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other service personnel. Although I am grateful for Secretary Clinton’s testimony and her service to our nation, unanswered questions and countless security concerns remain. 

“The American people still deserve answers to the legitimate questions surrounding this horrific act of terrorism that occurred at our Consulate on the eleventh anniversary of September 11^th, 2001. What prevented our military, the most capable and efficient in the world, from responding immediately or at any time during the seven-hour attack? Why has it taken so long to bring the terrorists who murdered our dedicated and selfless service personnel to justice? And more importantly, what can the government do to ensure that this kind of senseless attack will not occur again?

“With growing instability in the Middle East, Northern Africa, and around the world, one clear fact remains: The President’s foreign policies are failing and placing a very real danger on our national security.”

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