Office of Special Counsel Investigation

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) attracted public attention in 2007 when it began an investigation of alleged White House political pressure on federal civil servants. Senior political adviser Karl Rove was reported to be a subject of the investigation.

Appointment of Scott J. Bloch

On June 26, 2003, President George W. Bush nominated Scott J. Bloch as Special Counsel at OSC; the Senate confirmed him on December 9 and he was sworn in on January 5, 2004.

Implications for Government Transparency

This investigation by the Office of Special Counsel raises concerns about the potential influence of political pressures on the federal government and the need for transparency in government operations.