The IRS scandal must hinge on what was the intent of the audits. Whether they are politically motivated or whether targets were cutting corners or skirting on the edge of the tax code whether they presented due cause to target examination.
As to intelligence gathing via the AP, it was an exercise to locate leaking of classified materials that is harmful to the US. Recently, things have been given to the public which were not cleared for release.
As to excesses, they are always possible when you turn the blood hound lose in that they follow the trail where the scent leads and also down some trails where they don't belong.
Not excusing anything, but explaining how such inquiries can get started.
Some how it amuses me the news providers don't like the watchful eye of governemt while they intrude constantly in private lives trying to break the next headline.
