Shocking

I'm not sure that I ever use that word in any context that resembles sincerity. I am also pretty sure that the cynicism with which it is usually soaked is usually directed at the Bush administration and allegations about its tenure. I broke it out again today in regards to a new report by the Justice Department. It seems there may have been some illegal hiring practices in effect these last few years.

The blistering report, prepared by the Justice Department’s inspector general, is the first in what will be a series of investigations growing out of last year’s scandal over the firings of nine United States attorneys. It appeared to confirm for the first time in an official examination many of the allegations from critics who charged that the Justice Department had become overly politicized during the Bush administration.

... Applications that contained what were seen as “leftist commentary” or “buzz words” like environmental and social justice were often grounds for rejecting applicants, according to e-mails reviewed by the inspector general’s office. Membership in liberal organizations like the American Constitution Society, Greenpeace, or the Poverty and Race Research Action Council were also seen as negative marks.

Affiliation with the Federalist Society, a prominent conservative group, was viewed positively.

This post could have been alternatively titled "Why Not to Elect People Who Don't Believe in Government, Part 716," but today just seemed to call for a little sarcasm. I won't get a better opportunity than this.