Aschroft 's Last Attack
Determined to be controversial to the bitter end, Ashcroft delivered a final parting shot today during a speech at the Heritage Foundation:
In a stinging parting shot at administration critics, Attorney General John Ashcroft on Tuesday warned of serious threats to public safety and security if Congress fails to restore stiff sentencing guidelines and does not renew portions of the Patriot Act.
"Last month's Supreme Court ruling that federal judges are not bound by sentencing guidelines is a retreat from justice that may put the public's safety in jeopardy," Ashcroft declared. "Which of our daughters, wives and husbands -- are we willing to sacrifice to return to revolving door justice." Ashcroft demanded Congress "reinstitute tough sentences and certain justice for criminals".
Ashcroft's resignation is effective "the moment" Alberto Gonazales is confirmed as Attorney General, which should be no later Thursday.
Update: Law Prof Doug Berman of Sentencing Law and Policy weighs in on the Booker aspect of Ashcroft's speech.
< Conn. Holds Hearings On Abolishing the Death Penalty | Frost, Roemer Drop Out, Dean in Front for DNC Chair > |