LAT: Bush Takes Safe Path on Roberts (unusual haste)

[UpInArms]

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/politics/wire/sns-ap-roberts-analysis,1,3433664.story?coll=sns-ap-politics-headlines

WASHINGTON -- President Bush chose the path of least resistance in nominating John Roberts as chief justice, acting with unusual haste as the war in Iraq and Hurricane Katrina sap his political strength. He was the safest choice Bush could make.

Roberts is a Washington insider well versed in the functions of the Supreme Court and the levers of power in Congress, an accomplished lawyer whose smile and sterling resume seem to take the sharp edges off his deeply conservative ideology.

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While his confirmation still seems likely, Roberts may face a tougher road to confirmation because the position of chief justice will be held to a higher standard. Bush's weakening political standing could complicate things for Roberts, according to strategists in both parties.

Republican and Democratic strategists also agree that Bush will come under intense pressure now to name a woman or minority to replace O'Connor. It's no small factor that flooding in New Orleans hit black residents the hardest, raising questions about Bush's sensitivity to minorities and the poor.

"When Roberts' record on civil rights is reviewed inside the Judiciary Committee, it's going to sound more jarring post-Katrina than before the hurricane," said Democratic consultant Jenny Backus. "America was reminded about the big issue out there that has not been openly addressed by the administration -- economic disparity based on race."

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Question to mods: This is a news article that I would normally put in LBN, but due to the high number of my posts being moved to Editorials and Other Articles, I am posting here before you move it. Could you please tell me what the new rules are for news articles that will not be allowed in LBN? I am not attempting to be snide or argumentative, just inquiring and really am at a loss to understand what is going on. Thanks in advance for your help (and you have always be helpful).