Democrats Fight Bush's Picks for Key Posts

George W. Bush's nominations for three key positions have raised opposition among Democrats in the Senate. John Bolton, chosen for the United Nations ambassador, is the most contentious choice. Democrats argue that he is not only unqualified but also opposed to multilateralism and the United Nations, which is essential for his role. Other concerns include allegations of intimidating analysts who disagreed with him and attempting to distort intelligence reports. This stance undermines the United States' relationships with other nations, which it desperately needs to tackle the proliferation of real weapons of mass destruction.

Key Takeaways:

• John Bolton's nomination as the United Nations ambassador is opposed due to his disdain for multilateralism and the United Nations, making him unqualified for the post.
• Democrats are questioning Bolton's leadership style, which they believe symbolizes the current estrangement between the United States and most of the world.
• Senators are also raising concerns about allegations of Bolton distorting intelligence reports and intimidating analysts who disagreed with him.
• Dr. Lester Crawford's nomination for Food and Drug Administration commissioner is disputed over his inaction on the morning-after pill's availability, which could drastically cut down on abortions.
• Senators Hillary Clinton and Patty Murray are pushing for a decision on the morning-after pill, but Dr. Crawford has been reluctant, fearing backlash from social conservatives or those who believe the FDA should be run on scientific grounds.
• Senators Barbara Boxer and Ben Nelson are blocking Stephen Johnson's nomination as Environmental Protection Agency head over concerns about his lack of resistance to Bush's policies, which have harmed the nation's clean air and water.
• Johnson's support for a study on the effects of pesticides on children exposed to them through their families is also a point of contention.
• Democrats have a strong case against Bolton's nomination, and it appears they will choose him as the disastrous Bush pick to block.

Statistics:

• 72 hours: Amount of time within which the morning-after pill can effectively prevent unwanted pregnancies (Clinton and Murray).
• 16: Age limit proposed for the sale of the morning-after pill (Hillary Clinton and Patty Murray).
• Percentage of expert advisers who voted in favor of selling the medication over the counter: Overwhelming majority (not specified).