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(I'm going to disagree with elwood and say this merits front-page attention. - promoted by Dean Barker)
Our vestigial limb of government has two roles: it votes on state expenditures over $5000 and it confirms or denies gubernatorial appointments. In the latter role it has historically ensured that Democratic governors cannot replace Republican appointees they inherit in major agencies.
Earlier this year it had the opportunity to act as an independent check on state government without simply being obstructionist. When Lynch nominated Ayotte for another term, she was already being promoted by Republican activists as a future statewide candidate.
It would have been a simple, straightforward demand. "Can you pledge to us, General Ayotte, that if we confirm, you will serve a full term rather than resign and run for office?"
Such an agreement would have been very much in the interest of the state. The specter of the Chief Law Enforcement Officer grooming his/her political resume -- choosing civil, criminal and legislative matters to weigh in on based on how popular the cause is -- should appall people from both parties.
But no such pledge was demanded or given. We instead have a cloud over the Department of Justice.