“She said she broke no laws. Why would she need immunity?”
5th Amendment protection is only for criminal proceedings. That means she thinks she is criminally at risk. She affirmatively asserted that she broke no laws. She is immediately at risk for perjury.
If I were Issa, I would play hard ball. I would tell her that by asserting the 5th, she is basically admitting that she broke the law. Therefore, he is initiating a criminal referral for perjury and crimes yet undiscovered to the US Attorney.
Her normal life is basically over at this point. She will now have to spend her savings to keep herself from being convicted of a felony and being sent to prison. Her career in government is over.
No immunity unless you deliver people above you. She cannot “take the fall” for the administration.
“She affirmatively asserted that she broke no laws.”
And in that instant waived her 5th amendment rights. Now she is on the hook and she knows it. This is why she is in contempt of congress. The 5th does not allow you to get up, and tell your side of the story and then refuse any questions.
She tried to have it both ways and screwed it up.
I'm pretty sure before you get an immunity deal, you have to cough up the information you have first. I don't think she could just get a deal and then make up a bunch of crap.
Issa's a pretty bright guy, so he'll make it worth his while.