A Washington Post editorial says Senate Democrats are needlessly holding up the confirmation of President Donald Trump's nomination of Rod Rosenstein as deputy attorney general.
"Though President Trump's opening weeks have been chaotic and dispiriting, the nation's new chief executive has still managed to make a few good choices," the Post says. "One of his best was nominating Rod J. Rosenstein to be the No. 2 at the Justice Department.
"The sooner the Senate confirms him, the sooner the administration will have another adult in its top ranks."
The newspaper noted Rosenstein's record of working nearly three decades in the Justice Department under presidents of both parties. But it said he faced demands from Democrats at his confirmation hearing "that no one in his position should accede to."
It pointed out his hearing focused on the recusal of Attorney General Jeff Sessions for issues involving Russia and the presidential election.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., had said he would oppose Rosenstein's nomination if he was unwilling to commit to the appointment of a special prosecutor, according to the Post.
But the paper notes Rosenstein believes he should not be promising to take action on a particular case.
"It is entirely appropriate for Mr. Rosenstein to do what any good prosecutor would — refuse to prejudge a law enforcement question before reviewing the full record, including information that is not publicly available," the Post says.
A special prosecutor "would add to the Justice Department's appearance of independence and integrity," the newspaper adds.
"But we respect Mr. Rosenstein for refusing to pre-commit. So should the Senate."
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