Lynch for Attorney General?

President Obama recently unveiled his nominee for Attorney General; Loretta Lynch. If her nomination passes through the Senate, she would replace leaving AG Eric Holder, who has been a longtime cabinet member and advisor to the President. Holder announced his resignation two months ago, waiting until his position is filled to leave. Lynch has been US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, encompassing parts of the City and Long Island, since 2010 and held the position previously over a decade ago.

www.justice.gov

Loretta Lynch has spearheaded major investigations and indictments, but according to some, spearhead is a generous description of the decorated lawyer. She has been criticized for alleged "fronting", where she appears tough on criminal political behavior, but in reality leaves a large portion of the pool untouched. John Samson, the former New York state Senate Majority Leader, is an example. Facing trial next year, he has been indicted for embezzlement (among other charges) but the trail goes much deeper, something Lynch apparently hasn't taken much interest in.

To others, Lynch's controversial use of civil forfeiture -the government seizing personal assets without due process- will hinder her nomination procedures. Civil forfeiture is legal, but grey areas in the law raise doubts about it's growing use. Proponents such as Lynch have pointed to the unprecedented monetary gain the legal tool has garnered, in a time when belt-tightening and cost-saving is an absolute necessity in federal and state governments.

Despite these criticisms, Lynch has shown to be a stubborn and heavy-handed legal boss in her decades-spanning career -characteristics required for becoming the most powerful lawyer in the country. Her nomination has seen crucial Republican support, and as the majority of the chamber when her hearings will likely occur, this is a must for President Obama.