The Murky Waters of Executive Privilege

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Mired by the protracted investigation into possible presidential wrongdoing, President Clinton has signaled his intention to try to stop independent counsel Kenneth Starr from digging deeper into White House activities.

Mr. Clinton maintains that he has the right of executive privilege - a very controversial power - to stop Mr. Starr from compelling testimony from key White House aides and the president's attorneys.

Executive privilege is the right of presidents to withhold information about White House operations from those who have the power of inquiry. Executive privilege usually arises when Congress demands access to White House documents or orders testimony …