Buzz reader Florence writes in:
“How breathtakingly unfair and hypocritical is the major media. The presumption of guilt in covering the Plame/Wilson affair is an affront to that most basic of American jurisprudence: innocent until proven guilty. If it should happen that say neither Rove nor Libby, or one of them, does not get indicted, how do they recover their good name? Even Tom Oliphant, that lefty partisan, has expressed his dismay over this aspect of the brouhaha and of attempts by the prosecutor, supposedly, to invent novel readings of statutes to bring indictments in the absence of a crime being committed on the original reason for the investigation. I would hope that those who count themselves as conservatives would not be part of the premature mob drawing conclusions and discussing such before a decision is made. It is not sufficient to issue a caveat about...we don't know yet what will happen... and then proceed to discuss the effects of same. That is cheap and lazy journalism. Please hold yourselves at NRO to a higher standard.”
As I told Florence, I must respectfully disagree. Reporting on unanswered questions is my job. I do not presume to know Karl Rove’s fate. But I do know it is within the realm of possibility that he could be indicted. Also, let’s not forget indicted is far from convicted. Just ask Tom DeLay.
What’s more, regardless of Rove’s legal standing, there are legitimate concerns from conservatives about the White House agenda on spending, the Supreme Court and Homeland Security. I personally am not advocating solutions to these concerns. However, I do think it’s fair, and hopefully helpful, to ask more informed individuals what they know and think about such concerns.
What’s more, the list is lacking of those who restrained their opinion during the months leading up to Bill Clinton’s impeachment. There was open speculation and reporting from all corners on the potential consequences of his actions.
We can believe in Karl Rove’s innocence and we can advocate on his behalf. However, if you care about the conservative agenda that does not mean you should adopt an “ignorance is strength” approach to the very real troubles he faces. Looking for answers is far from a predetermination of guilt.
