In the hours leading up to the criminal contempt vote, Republicans repeatedly insisted that they were exercising proper legislative oversight of the executive branch and seeking answers for Terry's family.

CNN: House holds Holder in contempt

Its members have used legislative initiatives, oversight hearings, public statements and official correspondence to rouse the public.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Rep. Howard 'Buck' McKeon, Keeper of the Flame

"The attorney general and the Justice Department are thumbing their nose at the constitutional authority provided to the legislative branch to conduct oversight, " Grassley said in a written statement.

CNN: House committee weighs Holder contempt resolution