Ashcroft scrutiny underway

Hearings aimed at determining whether former Senator John Ashcroft should serve as Attorney General are underway in Washington. Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee are making statements, both for and against the beliefs of Ashcroft. Republican Senator Mike DeWine of Ohio said that while some might disagree with Ashcroft, there is no doubt about the man’s integrity. Senator Patrick Leahy, the ranking Democrat on the committee, reminded those in attendance that the hearing is not about whether Ashcroft was racist, anti-Catholic, or anti-Mormon. He says the hearing is strictly to determine whether he will enforce the country’s laws. The proceedings will continue for at least the next few days.