The Not-So-Nice Word Would Be Lying - By Eugene Robinson

[kpete]

Bedtime for Gonzo

By Eugene Robinson
Friday, July 27, 2007

..............

The not-so-nice word would be lying. Hence the call yesterday by a group of Senate Democrats for a perjury investigation.

I hope they nail him. Anyone tempted to feel sympathy for Gonzo should check out his weaselly explanation for why he would think it appropriate to buttonhole a sick man in his hospital room, regardless of the issue.

"There are no rules governing whether or not General Ashcroft can decide 'I'm feeling well enough to make this decision,' " Gonzo said. When Specter pointed out that Ashcroft had already turned his powers over to Comey, Gonzo replied, "And he could always reclaim it. There are no rules."

...................

That’s the guiding philosophy of this administration. As far as these people are concerned, there are no rules of common decency. There are no rules of customary practice. There are no rules governing respect for the truth, or even respect for the privacy and health of an ailing colleague.

And we all know who sets that tone.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/07/26/AR2007072601847_2.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

[Klukie]

1. Unethical behavior at its highest form.

While their actions may not be illegal, they are without a doubt unethical. This theme needs to be used more often.

[ThomWV]

2. I Do Not Believe Ashcroft Could Have "Reclaimed" His Position Even If He Had Wanted To

I believe the way it works is that Comey had to cede the authority back to Ashcroft unless the temporary appointment was made for some specific time period. Even if Ashcroft had signed the paper would have granted no authority because Ashcroft was not AG and could not reappoint himself AG.

[malaise]

3. Imagine the head of justice claiming

there are no rules. He will discover that there are rules.

[MADem]

4. Robinson hit that one outta the park. What a plain-spoken piece!!!

The use of the word 'weaselly' is noted...with great glee, I might add!!!

K and R!!!!!