The Gonzales Soap Opera

It's like a soap opera - but more dramatic. The date is 2004 and time is expiring on a program that allows the White House to listen to conversations of American citizens without a warrant. In order to continue with the program, the Bush administration must get a signature by then Attorney General John Ashcroft signaling that this sort of activity is legal. However, Ashcroft, already showing discontent with the actions of the White House, is in severe condition at the GW hospital. His number two, James Comey , who happens to agree with Ashcroft and is acting AG while Ashcroft is in the hospital, gets a call from Ashcroft's wife saying the then White House Council Alberto Gonzales, and Bush Chief of Staff Andy Card are on the way to the hospital to get a signature on the document that states the wiretapping program is legal. Hearing this news, Comey rushes to the hospital, and runs into Ashcroft's room just as the Gonzalez and Card ask Ashcroft to sign the papers.

At that point, Ashcroft rallies his strength, sits up, and with harsh words not only says no, but says that while he is in the hospital he does not have the authority to sign such papers and the White House should look towards Comey. Comey, obviously distressed by the White Houses' actions decides to write up his letter of resignation. However, days later, before Comey turns in his letter to the President, the White House informs the acting AG that all the issues that he had a problem with in the program had been addressed. Comey decides not to resign at that point.

The moral of this long winded story is that the White House not only plays politics to the "Nth" degree, but they also appoint political lackies to be AG's. Gonzales' irresponsible role in this activity should have been enough of a reason for him not to be confirmed as the leading law enforcement officer in America. I understand that political appointments are part of the game, but in the justice department, which prides itself on being independent and emphasizing the creed that no one is above the law, should have someone more responsible than Gonzales as their leader.

Gonzales is loyal to Bush and that is fine as councilor, but when you take the job of Attorney General, it is imperative that politics be set aside and that you ensure that laws are being followed by all citizens of the United States. It is this independent voice that separates the justice department from the rest of the Executive departments. A man like Gonzales only leaves it in shambles with the liberties of Americans compromised.

The following is a link with part of the story along with a report on the numerous calls of resignation from Congressmen/women.

MSNBC: "Dems seek no-confidence on Gonzales"