It’s possible Bush isn’t aware of it (it’s more likely he just doesn’t care), but the White House has come under some criticism of late for having a “cronyism” problem. The president seems to fill just about every high-level government post he can find with a close and loyal ally, experience and qualifications be damned. (See Mike Brown, Karen Hughes, Julie Myers, David Safavian, Scott Gottlieb, et al)<\/p>\n
In response to this criticism, Bush nominates Harriet Miers for the Supreme Court, a long-time buddy with no experience or public record. It’s hard to guess which phrase we’ll hear more in the next couple of weeks — “stealth nominee” or “Bush cronyism strikes again.”<\/p>\n
This isn’t likely to play out well with Senate Dems. From the outset, Bush is asking quite a bit. Vote for his nominee, but don’t expect to read her paper trail (there isn’t one); don’t expect to review her White House memoranda (privileged); and don’t expect her to answer questions during the confirmation hearings (she’ll be taught not to).<\/p>\n
What, exactly, is the pitch? Put Miers on the Supreme Court — because she served a term on the Dallas City Council 20 years ago, did a good job with the Texas Lottery Commission, and has demonstrated absolutely zero independence from the Bush White House. Oh yeah, and she thinks Bush is literally the most brilliant man<\/a> she’s ever met.<\/p>\n