Another Judge
When President Bush nominated now Chief Justice Roberts, I supported his decision. Not for the normal reason given in the media or by politicians — i.e. that they agree with the nominee’s politics — but because he has a lot of experience. For more see this blog.
The new nominee, Harriet Miers, does not have the experience necessary for such a position. Although she is described as a work-a-holic and is undoubtedly smart, she has never sat on another bench before. Her biggest claim to fame is that she is White House counsel under President Bush. Before that she held W’s hand in Texas.
Can we honestly say that she is the most qualified person for the job? To me, it doesn’t even pass the laugh test. This is obviously someone who has been very faithful to W and is being rewarded for her loyalty. In addition, she has not played a visible role and so there is little opportunity to critique her personal beliefs.
But this is exactly the problem — if judicial nominations are critiqued based on their political beliefs, we will be stuck with inexperienced, untested candidates. I have no doubt that she is intelligent and capable, but there are candidates who have proved they are great judges. Why not nominate a proven candidate?
