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Is Now John Ashcroft's Time?
Events Conspire to Thrust Attorney General into the Spotlight
 Listen to Mara Liasson's report.
 Read Ron Elving's analysis.
John Ashcroft
Photo: U.S. Department of Justice
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May 8, 2002 -- In his confirmation hearings, John Ashcroft drew more negative votes in the U.S. Senate than any nominee for attorney general in history. That was before Sept. 11, when Ashcroft was known mostly for his conservative and often controversial views on social issues. Now, he enjoys a 76 percent approval rating among the electorate.
Since the attacks, Ashcroft's public prominence and political power have grown markedly. As his reputation as a warrior against terrorists has increased, so, too has his ability and willingness to step outside the usual role of his office. As Mara Liasson reports for All Things Considered, Ashcroft's public criticisms of the Supreme Court, the state of Oregon, and others are unusual for an attorney general. But observers wonder what Ashcroft's tactics might mean in light of any political ambitions he may have.
One of those observers is NPR Washington Editor Ron Elving. Given Ashcroft's background in elected office, "at least some Republicans think he's chasing the next opening on their national ticket," says Elving, a veteran of more than 20 years of politics coverage.
In occasional columns exclusively for npr.org, Elving offers background and analysis on political figures and issues in the news. Elving's topics today: Ashcroft's high profile, and how he compares with attorneys general of the past.
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