Democratic Allies Line up Behind Holder for Attorney General

Evan Perez reports on the Justice Department. Liberal groups are lining up to sing the praises of Attorney General designee Eric Holder , backing up President-elect Barack Obama ’s pick to lead the Justice Department against anticipated attacks on his record. Republicans have groused about Holder’s role in former President Bill Clinton ’s granting of several last minute pardons, including that of financier Marc Rich . But so far, there is no indication such concern is leading to active opposition to Holder. Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter , the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a floor speech Tuesday that he planned to pose tough questions to Holder to ensure that he is capable of saying “No” to the president and avoid a repeat of Alberto Gonzales ’s controversial tenure under President George W. Bush . Specter expressed concern about Holder’s conduct in the pardons but said he will keep an open mind on the issue. At the time of the pardons, ... (link)