Note the AP:

“WASHINGTON – Attorney General Alberto Gonzales says his long friendship with President Bush makes it easier to say “no” to him on sticky legal issues.

Gonzales’ critics say the attorney is far more likely to say “yes,” and they say that leaves the Justice Department vulnerable to a politically determined White House.

Probably not since Watergate has an attorney general been so closely bound to the White House. Gonzales has pushed counterterrorism programs that courts found unconstitutional and filled the ranks of federal prosecutors with Republican loyalists. In doing so, he has put Bush’s stamp on an a Cabinet department that is supposed to operate largely free of the White House and beyond the reach of politics.”

Not since Watergate…..

Well, perhaps, but if you want to talk about closeness, how about Robert F. Kennedy, AG under John F. Kennedy, and also – hold on to your seat – his brother. The greatest case of nepotism in Government – ever.

But more to the point, Janet Reno. No not related to Bill Clinton – although could be his brother – when you talk about “tied at the hip” and being a “yes” person, Gonzales pales in comparison to Reno who’s actions not only showed incompetance but bordered on treason.