I didn't see it or hear it, but according to Salon, yesterday's
questioning of Ashcroft seems to have been a complete disgrace on all sides. Democrats asked too many questions on gun control. Republicans lapped at Ashcroft's feet like a dog and the man himself, when asked poignant questions, was disturbingly evasive. Indeed his unwillingness as seen his comments:
- "'In some areas, I cannot and will not consult you,' he said, beginning a Dr. Seussian cadence. He 'cannot and will not divulge the contents, the context, or even the existence of advice' he gives to the president, and 'cannot and will not divulge information ... that will damage the national security of the United States.'"
In the words of an attorney I work for, "this is disingenuous twaddle". Such arrogance in the face of direct congressional questioning on the constitutionality of the executive co-opting all the powers of government is inexcusable. The democrats simply weren't prepared for his obfuscating stance and shame on them. After his previous performances, especially in his confirmation hearings, they should have known they were facing a squirmy foe who will have problem contradicting himself or calling questioners un-patriotic in order not to answer a question. Disgraceful all around. Someone on the hill needs to get on the stick and explain the true powers W has taken for himself in this order. Until then, Ashcroft will be able to maintain his stance to the peril of us all. For, as we have seen, as long as the polls support him, he will act as recklessly as possible in the name of security.
