Intellectual Defenestration

John Ashcroft

US News & World Report has a cover story on Ashcroft that actually does analysis, rather than merely indulging in hysterics: [via WORLD Mag Blog]

For all of the controversy he manages to attract, John Ashcroft is one of the least understood men in Washington. Derided as a religious zealot by some, Ashcroft has never invoked religion in policy or procedural discussions, say colleagues, who add that they have never even seen him pray. Challenged during his confirmation hearings as insensitive to minorities, Ashcroft worships regularly at a mostly black church. An ardent opponent of abortion, Ashcroft is praised by pro-abortion-rights groups for prosecuting violence against abortion clinics. A longtime gun-control foe, Ashcroft has increased prosecutions of certain gun crimes nearly 70 percent over three years. "One of the things that's frustrating about watching from the outside is he's a very charming, intelligent guy," says James Comey, who was confirmed as Ashcroft's deputy a month ago and served as the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan before that. "He's shockingly smart, but most people wouldn't think that. The guy is ferociously honest, but there are people who would not believe that. To some in the public, he is Darth Vader, but it's unfair because he's really not that way."

What I find bizarre about Ashcroft's predicament is the radical contrast in the the images portrayed of him. On the one hand are those who think that all Ashcroft lacks is a swastika and jackboots. On the other hand are people I know and trust who in turn know Ashcroft personally and say that he is a remarkably intelligent and honorable man.

January 23, 2004 12:30 PM