When then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush announced my appointment to
the Texas Supreme Court, a reporter asked if the fact that I was
Hispanic was a factor in my appointment. The governor responded he
wanted to appoint someone who had the qualifications, integrity,
and temperament to serve effectively as a justice. He went on to
add that he believed also in the importance of diversity in our
government.
Critics of President Barack Obama question him for (i)
nominating individuals to his Cabinet who are too loyal and
supportive of his policies and (ii) failing to nominate a Cabinet
that reflects the diversity of America. I happen to agree
that a president is entitled to choose his team of advisors; the
group of individuals who will promote and defend his policies. The
concern about lack of Cabinet diversity, on the other hand, is
legitimate. Diversity of life experiences, culture, and education
produces advisors with different judgments and viewpoints helpful
to a
