It's interesting a respected Republican on the panel defended Gorelick and noted Mr. Ashcroft CONTINUED the policy he's whining about. "...But Slade Gorton, a former Republican senator...challenged Mr. Ashcroft, noting that the deputy attorney general under Mr. Ashcroft renewed the 1995 guidelines. Mr. Gorton said the Bush Justice Department ratified those guidelines, saying in its own secret memorandum on Aug. 6, 2001, that "the 1995 procedures remain in effect today."

The American Spectator didn't mention easily available information that would have easily contradicted its charges.

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/04/14/politics/14LEGA.html

It still doesn't matter as she should be on the other side of the table answering questions not asking them.

Right, I think I agree with you if I understand your basic point. If as Mr. Ashcroft says that "...The single greatest structural cause for September 11 was the wall that segregated criminal investigators and intelligence agents..." then questions should be asked why "the wall" was created, and if it is still needed. Why was it created in the first place, which I understand was before Ms. Gorelick joined the agency; why did she codify it; why did Mr. Ashcroft continue it, what is its continuing value, etc.

I think we are on the same page. I'm still looking for more sources about Ashcroft taking a pro-active approach to agreeing with the wall. The NYT is not a source I always rely on for fact. Bottom line, before 9/11 was a different world. Now what needs to be done to fix it to prevent another 9/11 or worse.