Ashcroft's anti-abortion stance and past record on civil rights issues are being studied by liberal groups wary of placing a bedrock conservative at the head of the Department of Justice. Supporters say Ashcroft is eminently qualified, citing his background as state attorney general, governor and U.S. senator from Missouri. Listen as NPR's Steve Inskeep talks about the upcoming hearings with Weekend Edition Sunday host Frank Stasio. Southern Partisan , a small-circulation magazine that celebrates the antebellum South and has defended elements of slavery. Ashcroft praised the publication and spoke highly of leaders of the Confederacy.
Critics charge that granting the interview showed insensitivity to modern racial realities.
All Things Considered . The election of George W. Bush and the appointment of Ashcroft and other conservatives to the Cabinet have fueled hope among some anti-abortion activists that the new administration may take up their cause. But the issue is far from simple, and NPR's Julie Rovner warns that those hoping for rapid change are likely to be disappointed. Hear more as Rovner reports for Weekend Edition Saturday . Inauguration Protests Expected Security for the coming inauguration will be the tightest in history.