No, Neither Version Looks Good

The Star sums up the competing narratives of Sen. Kit Bond's role in the replacement of Todd Graves as U.S. Attorney: 

In version one, Bond had no idea a member of his staff was in close contact with the Bush White House (possibly including Bond’s friend and Bush adviser Karl Rove). In this account, a former Bond aide orchestrated Graves’ ouster from office, even holding up a federal appeals court appointment to make sure it happened. The senator puts forth this version, noting he even called the White House to plead that Graves be given more time on the job.

In version two, Bond pushed for the ouster, flexing political muscles in an in-party spat with Rep. Sam Graves, brother of the former U.S. attorney. Bond denies this. House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, Michigan Democrat, disagrees, stating: “Kansas City U.S. Attorney Todd Graves was removed as part of a White House-brokered deal with U.S. Sen. Kit Bond.”

Whether either scenario signals a violation of the law is questionable. But version one is a sign of an office gone rogue, and Bond is known for running a pretty tight ship. And version two seems a very petty use of senatorial authority, especially for a position charged with seeking justice. Neither looks good for Bond.

The Star's full editorial is here.

Image credit: Think Progress