Eric Umansky

The (anti-)Abortion Experts

Roberts stand on abortion smells a bit of what Kissinger would call Strategic Ambiguity. But just FYI, the  nutty wingers at Operation Rescue don't seem too concerned: "We pray that Roberts will be swiftly confirmed."

Presidential Bullying (of his friends)

Bush is ticked off, and warning the religious right's to halt their campaign against AG Gonzales. “All of a sudden this fellow, who is a good public servant and a fine person, is under fire," said Bush. "Do I like it? No, I don’t like it—at all.”

But here's my question: Why shouldn't the conservatives criticize Gonzales? Correct me if you've seen otherwise but so far as I've read, they're not saying Gonzales is a crack addict or a bad father or engaging in any character assasination. They just don't like his apparent politics. So they're  lobbying in the hope he doesn't get a permanent promotion. What's so wrong with that? Isn't it what engaged citizens are supposed to do?

Which brings me back to President Bush. He's not offended on priciple about the right's moves. Unless, of course, the priciple is: Don't fuck with my buddies.