Michael B. Mukasey, President Bush's nominee to be attorney general, is a well-respected former trial judge with sound views on national-security issues.

Michael B. Mukasey, President Bush's nominee to be attorney general, is a well-respected former trial judge with sound views on national-security issues. Nominated by President Reagan to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York in 1987, Judge Mukasey presided over the New York trials of terrorists, including the prosecution of the jihadists who planned the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. He has forcefully defended key provisions of the Patriot Act, and appears ideally suited to handle the Justice Department's most crucial responsibilities. He will now be introduced to the ways of Washington, where his reputation for integrity and independence will not spare him a confirmation ordeal. After months of posturing about the desperate need for new leadership at the Department of Justice, Senate Democrats are expected to stall his nomination in order to gain political advantage. Janet Reno was confirmed 13 days after her nomination was sent to the Senate in 1993. Democrats who so swiftly approved a wholly unqualified nominee should have to explain why Judge Mukasey hasn't already taken office.