on the Kerik thing; let's face it, if Bill Bratton or Timoney or Ray Kelly were nominated tomorrow, they would also be cut down. Perhaps not on the nanny thing, but anyone coming up through the "real world" ranks of an urban environment, is going to have baggage that the media can whip into an instant "scandal". and this WH isn't willing to fight it out. so what kind of nominees does that leave you with?
Right now, I would ask Norman Schwarzkopf to take it if he were available.
The Kerik thing is regrettable, to be sure. He LOOKED like a good nominee. But there are people who rise to the top without under-the-table nannies and sending goons out to roust people you think pinched some minor piece of property. The "urban environment" excuse is for rappers and NBA stars.