Cronyism

Deconstructing President Mushmouth's announcement is entertaining on so many levels. I watched the announcement as I cheerily awaited my first colonoscopy, so the air was thick with metaphor.

"She has devoted her life to the rule of law and the cause of justice," Bush said as his first Supreme Court pick, Chief Justice John Roberts, took the bench for the first time just a few blocks from the White House.

Don't lawyers, by definition and oath, devote their lives to the rule of law, whatever the hell that is? And while I agree that it is a good idea to nominate lawyers who have actually represented clients, Mushmouth's praise of Miers's record takes me back to Clarence Thomas.

Over the course of a distinguished legal career, Harriet has earned the respect and admiration of her fellow attorneys. She has a record of achievement in the law, as well as experience as an elected member of the Dallas City Council. She served at high levels of both state and federal government. Before state and federal courts, she has tried cases, and argued appeals that covered a broad range of matters. She's been a leader in the American Bar Association, and has been recognized by the National Law Journal as one of the most powerful attorneys in America.

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Harriet has built a reputation for fairness and integrity. When I came to office as the governor of Texas, the Lottery Commission needed a leader of unquestioned integrity. I chose Harriet because I knew she would earn the confidence of the people of Texas. The Dallas Morning News said that Harriet insisted on a system that was fair and honest. She delivered results.

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Harriet Miers will strictly interpret our Constitution and laws. She will not legislation from the bench. I ask the Senate to review her qualifications thoroughly and fairly, and to vote on her nomination promptly.

So we don't know much about this person. She may be supremely qualified by work ethic and intellect to do the job but being on the Dallas City Council and the head of the Texas lottery do not suggest great qualifications. But I suppose all that matters to Mushmouth is that she "strictly interpret the constitution and not legislate from the bench." Wouldn't you love it if he could define those terms?