Push to Oust Gonzales Loses Steam

Dismisses them as 'poppycock,' part of anti-Obama vendetta

(NEWSER) - The founder of ACORN says the conservative portrayal of the group as a "criminal enterprise" is a “complete fabrication." Claims that the group systematically misuses federal funds for political purposes are being circulated as fact on TV talk shows and blogs, Wade Rathke tells the Washington Post. "It's balderdash on top of poppycock. It is a tactic they are trying to aggressively use to attack Obama.” More»

Nevada prosecutor to get old job back

(NEWSER) - A US attorney fired by the Bush administration is set to get his old job back, the Washington Post reports. Daniel Bolger, whose 2006 firing is among those being probed for partisan motivation, has been nominated by President Obama to again be the federal prosecutor for Nevada. Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, when grilled by the Senate Judiciary Committee, was unable to recall the reason for Bolger's firing. More»

(NEWSER) - John Ensign, a Republican senator from Nevada said to be considering a presidential run in 2012, admitted today that he had an extramarital affair with a campaign staffer, reports Chris Cillizza of the Washington Post. "It's absolutely the worst thing I've ever done in my life," he said at a press conference. "I'm very sorry." His wife, Darlene, backed her husband and said their "marriage has become stronger" in a statement. More»

Former Bush aide will testify on attorney firings, governor's prosecution

(NEWSER) - Karl Rove is looking forward to testifying before the House Judiciary Committee concerning his alleged role in the sacking of several federal prosecutors, Fox News reports. But beware the “show trial,” Rove said, as “some Democrats would love to have me barbecued.” Rove will also be questioned about the prosecution of Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman, which Democrats claim was politically motivated. More»

Image of corruption-busting prosecutor plays well in recession

(NEWSER) - US attorneys have been a sore subject for Republicans since the Bush administration's politically motivated dismissal of eight prosecutors in 2006. But in the Obama age, the office is becoming a wellspring of strong Republican candidates, Politico reports. The current climate of public distrust toward government and financial institutions means prosecutors with reputations for even-handed integrity are attractive to voters. More»