Conflicting Loyalties: Law and Politics in the Attorney General's Office, 1789-1990

Name: Conflicting Loyalties: Law and Politics in the Attorney General's Office, 1789-1990
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Book Synopsis: The U.S. Attorney General is forever caught between competing demands: on one side, his political duties as cabinet appointee and adviser to the president; on the other, his quasi-judicial responsibilities as chief law officer of the nation. In theory the two sets of responsibilities coexist peacefully. In reality they often clash.

In Conflicting Loyalties, political scientist Nancy Baker provides the first comprehensive analysis of the history and structure of the office of the U.S. Attorney General, an office that legal scholars have described as "schizophrenic." Her study documents how they have differed in their responses, seeing themselves either as advocates of the president or as neutral expounders of the law. Combining historical analysis with legal and political theory, Baker shows how this implicit conflict has evolved from the earliest days of the Republic, when the attorney general was primarily an adviser, to the present day, when he administers the huge bureaucracy of the Department of Justice.

Using both archival materials and personal interviews, Baker analyzes how the seventy-five men who have held the post of attorney general have managed the conflict of loyalties. In particular, she focuses on Robert Kennedy, Edwin Meese, Elliot Richardson, Griffin Bell, Robert Jackson, Edward Levi, A. Mitchell Palmer, and Roger Taney. She also examines how the office has been affected by scandals in various administrations, including the Red scare of 1919-20, Teapot Dome, Watergate, and Iran-Contra. The book concludes with an exploration of arguments for reforming the office.

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Are you fascinated by the inner workings of the U.S. Attorney General's office? Look no further! Introducing "Conflicting Loyalties: Law and Politics in the Attorney General's Office, 1789-1990," the comprehensive analysis that unravels the hidden conflicts faced by the nation's top law officer. Written by political scientist Nancy Baker, this groundbreaking book sheds light on the delicate balance between political duties and the pursuit of justice.

With meticulous research and insightful analysis, Baker delves into the complex history and structure of the U.S. Attorney General's office. Discover how these esteemed figures navigate the challenging terrain of political obligations and their responsibilities as the guardian of the law. Uncover the fascinating journey from being mere presidential advisors to running the vast bureaucracy of the Department of Justice.

Through a combination of historical examination and legal and political theory, Baker dissects the implicit conflict that has plagued the office throughout its existence. You'll explore the contrasting approaches taken by different attorneys general, ranging from acting as presidential advocates to impartial interpreters of the law. Dive deep into the experiences of influential figures like Robert Kennedy, Edwin Meese, and Elliot Richardson, and witness the impact of scandals like Watergate and Iran-Contra on the office.

Do you believe it's time for reform? Baker's insightful book concludes with an exploration of arguments for reshaping the U.S. Attorney General's office. Whether you're a legal scholar, a political enthusiast, or simply curious about the delicate balance of power within the American justice system, "Conflicting Loyalties" is an invaluable resource.

Embrace the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities that lie at the heart of America's legal and political landscape. Don't miss out on this illuminating journey. Grab your copy of "Conflicting Loyalties: Law and Politics in the Attorney General's Office, 1789-1990" today!

Get your copy now and explore the intricate dynamics of the U.S. Attorney General's office like never before!

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