A transcript of the taped remarks was included in the first stack of background documents on Ashcroft to arrive at the Judiciary Committee yesterday afternoon. Ashcroft opponents and some Democratic senators said the remarks reinforce concerns that Ashcroft will let his conservative religious views unduly influence his decisions as attorney general. The committee will want to explore whether Senator Ashcroft's views have changed since he proudly accepted its honorary degree. Ashcroft said last year that he was not aware of the school's views on dating and Catholics when he accepted the degree, and did not agree with them. Bush also came under fire for appearing at the school while campaigning in South Carolina.
Faith is an important part of the fabric of our society.
Some House and Senate members said Ashcroft's appearance at Bob Jones University raises questions about his racial sensitivity, but Republicans defended Ashcroft on the issue. Staff writer Helen Dewar contributed to this report. News Jobs AP Shopping Archives Entertain.