Earlier this week, Rep. Marsha Blackburn, a Republican from Tennessee, called for an investigation of the president’s decision to move the Census Bureau out of the Commerce Department. The Corner asked her a few questions about it.

KJL: Why are you calling for investigations into Obama and the Census?

Rep. Blackburn: This isn’t a small or innocent change. The White House has proposed a major shift in organization for one of the oldest institutions in our republic. Their proposal strips the insulation the census traditionally has had from political interference. Allocation of congressional districts, electoral college votes, and federal resources all depend on the Census. The Energy and Commerce committee, on which I sit, has jurisdiction over the Commerce Department. Such a profound change in that department’s essential functions requires the Committee’s oversight.

KJL: Are you just bitter about this whole Judd-Gregg-leaving-the-Senate issue?

Rep. Blackburn: I am encouraged that the president chose such a responsible, credible public servant to lead the Commerce Department. Senator Gregg has had a healthy skepticism about some of the department’s activities that will be useful as he takes up his new position. His move is a loss for the Senate, but Tennessee has two extraordinary senators in Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker who I am certain can fill the void.

KJL: Why is the Census issue so important?

Rep. Blackburn: Many of our most essential government functions are based on the findings of the census. These include how many congressional districts and electors each state gets. All of these decisions rely on a fair and impartial count. That is why all of my Republican colleagues on the committee have joined me in calling for these hearings.

KJL: Have you had any feedback from Democrats or the administration on your concerns?

Rep. Blackburn: Not yet, but I just sent the letter requesting a hearing over yesterday. This does not need to be a partisan issue. I hope that my Democrat colleagues are as alarmed about this as I would be if I heard that Karl Rove was taking over the census in the previous administration.

KJL: What’s the only reasonable response in your mind?

Rep. Blackburn: The most reasonable response is also the easiest response: Let the census function the way it always has.