Clinton Wants To Testify On Tape

The Justice Department asked Tuesday that President Clinton be allowed to testify via videotape, instead of in person, at the Whitewater trial of two former business partners and the governor of Arkansas.

The president’s “unique status under the Constitution distinguishes him from other executive officials,” and he should be able to pick the time and place for the testimony, Assistant Attorney General Frank W. Hunger argued in court papers.

James and Susan McDougal have subpoenaed Clinton to testify at their fraud and conspiracy trial, saying only he can counter allegations expected from David Hale, a former banker. McDougal wants the president to testify in person.

Hunger argued that such a request could damage the president’s ability to do his job.

“Videotaped testimony of the president, conducted at a time convenient to the president which is least disruptive of his ability to perform his official duties and taken in Washington, D.C., will more than adequately protect defendant’s interests,” he wrote.