Kavanaugh Has Already Failed the Test of Temperament

Getting to the truth of the allegations of sexual abuse brought against Brett Kavanaugh might never be possible. Careful investigation is warranted, but even the fullest inquiries might leave doubt. Even so, this doesn’t mean the Senate has no basis for ruling on his appointment to the Supreme Court. Wherever the truth lies, Kavanaugh’s testimony last week revealed a temperament that makes him unsuited for the position.

Senators have gone to lengths to point out that the nomination process is a job interview. They’re right — and, as one of nine lifetime spots atop one of only three branches of government, the position should go to someone remarkable. In a nation of 325-plus million souls and well over a million lawyers, there should be more than a few viable candidates.