Let the American people, let the Congress do it, and let the Congress act whichever way they want. But wrap this sucker up.'' The two senators' comments came a day after Mr. Starr's staff concluded an agreement with lawyers for the young woman, Monica Lewinsky, granting her blanket immunity from prosecution in exchange for her full and truthful testimony. Ms. Lewinsky is expected to appear soon before a grand jury investigating whether Mr. Clinton asked her to lie about their relationship or sought help in finding her a job to ensure her silence. With the immunity agreement Tuesday and negotiations under way on how Mr. Clinton will respond to a grand jury subpoena, Mr. Starr's inquiry into whether the president obstructed justice, lied under oath or sought to influence witnesses is moving rapidly. The grand jury hearing evidence under Mr. Starr's guidance will decide whether indictments are warranted.
Many legal experts doubt that the constitution allows a president to be indicted while in office.
Should Mr. Clinton appear before the grand jury, it would be a first for a sitting president. White House lawyers are seeking an accord to allow him to testify in his office, sparing him from the raucous atmosphere of the press-besieged federal courthouse, and with his lawyers present. Mr. Hatch said he thought such conditions would probably be agreed on. Normally, people appearing before a grand jury may not have a lawyer in the room. Apart from any grand jury action, Mr. Starr is expected to submit a report to Congress that could be politically damaging.