"This is a great day for Washington and for the citizens of our fifty-seven states," he declared, ignoring the fact that the 42 dissenting votes were the most ever received by a nominee for the Justice Department position. "This is surely proof that when I reach across the aisle, you can feel me touching you."

"He'd better not try and touch me," grumbled Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. "I've had to slap away those wandering hands of his before and I'll do it again. Besides, I am not happy about this nomination."

Critics are worried that Ashcroft's extremely conservative views will prejudice his ability to enforce laws he doesn't agree with, particularly his views against abortion. The former Missouri Senator once tried to introduce legislation that would arm fetuses and grant them concealed weapon permits so they could protect themselves against abortionists.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) says the characterizations of Ashcroft's record are "ridiculous. John Ashcroft is the best man for this job. I can guarantee he will do what is morally right to protect the views of rich white Christian males everywhere."

Democrats aren't so convinced about Ashcroft, however, and will keep a watchful eye on the Justice Department in the months to come. Ted Kennedy (D-Massachusetts), who once considered mounting a filibuster to stonewall the nomination process, was disappointed by the confirmation but remained cautiously optimistic.

"I sincerely hope that Attorney General Ashcroft won't let his views blind him to the justice of democracy," he said following the vote. "But we will certainly keep watch for any overt displays of moral judgement against the law; and if so, action will be taken."

When pressed about what such actions might be Kennedy demurred, but said that he wouldn't rule out the possibility of taking Ashcroft on a "drive some night" to discuss matters.