That's what NBC's First Read is ruminating about:
Will the White House introduce its SCOTUS nominee during the thick of the Plame leak investigation? The Washington Post reports that President Bush may announce his pick as early as this week, rather than next week. That would be a big effort to change the subject -- and might well succeed. It would also "prove" that the White House is not distracted by the Rove controversy, and possibly force Senate Democratic critics to tone it down in the interest of having that much talked about, dignified confirmation debate. Presumably, it would also be a sign that the White House is confident that no other memos or damaging material about the Plame leak will come to light during the SCOTUS debate.Um, NBC, presumably, that's what the White House wants you to think. Just a reminder, this White House has lied to you for the past two years about this scandal. Lied. So, here's an idea: don't presume anything. And, don't trust anything they say.
I may be going out on a limb here. But, I think the press can cover two stories -- A Supreme Court nominee and the biggest national security scandal in years. Give it a try at least. The White House only succeeds in this distraction strategy if the media lets them. Remember, Rove thinks you're a bunch of patsies.
