I have a new fave

I have to say, based solely on how he handled his press conference today, that Patrick Fitzgerald would make a fine pick for SCotUS. He demonstrated a focus and understanding of the issues before the grand jury that surpassed everything I had hoped for. He was cautious, measured, and reasoned. He elected to pursue, via the grand jury, only those charges he felt met the standards of provable criminal activity, setting aside for later or abandoning altogether those charges he did not feel were supported by the investigation.

While it is not entirely fair to compare Fitzgerald, a Special Prosecutor, to Kenneth Starr, who was operating as an independent counsel (and special prosecutor), it is tempting. Fitzgerald kept the doors sealed, brooked no leaks, and refuses to produce a report, even if it is determined that such an act is within his rights.

He impressed me, in short, in much the same way as Chief JusticeRoberts impressed me during his Senate testimony. I have no idea where Fitzgerald stands on any issues, though he did indicate that he is not registered with any party. Since there is every possibility that he will impanel a new grand jury, he would not be able to accept a nomination to replace Justice O'Connor. Then again, he's not likely to fit the mold that the Bush administration is hoping to use, so this is all moot.