Eric Holder, Jr., nominee for attorney general, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee today, which is weighing his nomination. What we saw was a classic example of Hollywood logic and Washington ethics.

It’s common in Hollywood for executives who’ve failed to go on to better, higher-paying jobs.  It’s called “failing upward.”  The argument is that, “yes, Freddie produced 74 flops in a row, but that gave him the kind of experience he needs to succeed.  And he deserves to have his salary doubled because of all the pain he’s felt.  He’s earned it.”  This argument is presented seriously, and taken seriously. 

We heard that from Holder today.  Sure, he conceded, he was wrong to okay the Marc Rich pardon in the last days of the Clinton reign, but the blunder will simply make him a better attorney general and nobler person.

So, readers, if you really want to get ahead in this world, use Hollywood logic as interpreted by Eric Holder, Jr.  Just make a lot of mistakes.  Come in late.  Screw up.  Then say that you’ve been chastened by your experience.  You’re wiser, a better person.  And demand a raise.  And see what happens.

Oh, by the way, Holder refused to rule out prosecuting members of the Bush administration for “illegal” activities associated with the war on terror.  That will really inspire our intelligence services, law enforcement, and the military, to know that they have an administration that backs them.  Why is there cheering in the mountains of Pakistan tonight?

Holder will be confirmed.  Let’s hope it doesn’t take another 3,000 deaths on American soil to make him a better lawyer and finer person.

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