Laura Bush Suggests There May Be Sexism In Miers Opposition

First Lady Laura Bush has waded into the controversy over her husband’s nomination of Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court — suggesting that there may be sexism at play in the opposition to Miers:

Joining her husband in defense of Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers, Laura Bush today called her a “role model for young women around the country” and suggested that sexism was a “possible” reason for the heavy criticism of the nomination.

“I know Harriet well,” the First Lady said. “I know how accomplished she is. I know how many times she’s broken the glass ceiling.. . . . She’s very deliberate and thoughtful and will bring dignity to wherever she goes, certainly the Supreme Court.”

When people in politics use the word “possible” in making a barely-disguised charge, they’re doing it to get the word out there. They mean they think it’s the case — or they’re trying to turn the heat up on their foes so they will curtail their criticism. MORE:

The president and Laura Bush commented on Miers during an appearance on NBC’s Today show from Covington, La., where they participated in a home building project with Habitat for Humanity volunteers.

Asked by host Matt Lauer if sexism might be playing a role in the Miers controversy, she said, “It’s possible. I think that’s possible. . . . I think people are not looking at her accomplishments.”

So there you have it, Bill Kristol, John Fund, Stephen Bainbridge and a host of others.

If the President had nominated a man who had been his lawyer, who had no experience as a judge, no paper trail, no background in constitutional law , who didn’t fulfill conservatives’ expectations of a candidate who would openly articulate conservative values you would be appreciating his qualifications and supporting him. Shame on you.

Some Others Who Have Thoughts On Ms. Bush’s Contention:
Professor Bainbridge, John Podhortez