Crony is used commonly to convey a negative. "Associate" would serve just as well, unless you intended it as a negative. Beliefs and life experiences color all of our decisions. It is inescapable. Judges are no exception. That is why we seldom have unanimous rulings even though each person sees the same material.
One thing this entire thread has shown. We are all passionate about our nation. It is a great nation, and whatever the hell Mier turns out to be, our nation will continue.
Enjoyed the debate and to all good night.