This from our blogging partner-in-crime, Robert Hayes:

The current suspect in the Lakewood police murder case had his lengthy prison sentence commuted nine years ago by then-Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

Over the protests of law enforcement and his own state prosecutors, Huckabee commuted the sentence of Maurice Clemmons despite his long criminal record of violence and major concerns about his mental stability. Clemmons was convicted on at least five felonies in the state of Arkansas. He currently faces eight felony charges in Washington, before any charges that may result from the Lakewood killings. He was released from custody in Pierce County Jail less than a week before the Lakewood shootings.

Many are asking why Clemmons was released from the Pierce County Jail, given the seriousness of the charge pending against him (second-degree rape of a child), that there was a fugitive warrant for him in Arkansas, and that he was facing multiple felony charges in Washington. Clemmons posted $150,000 in bail through a Chehalis, Washington bond company. Bail was issued despite Clemmons’ history of assaulting police officers, and recorded statements that he had told his family members that he was Jesus Christ, that he could fly, and that he expected a visit from President Obama to confirm his status as the Messiah.

Ouch.

I can’t say this makes me happy--the circumstances simply won’t allow that kind of a response. I will say, though, that I’m not, never have been, and can’t imagine being a Mike Huckabee fan. Over the next few years, Republicans will need to find a strong voice to carry the fight against expansive government and the Democrat’s current policy prescriptions. It would be nice if that person were a conservative with a track record of fiscal responsibility, good judgement, and the charisma and strength to lead the country when tough changes need to be made. Huckabee isn’t that guy (although, to be fair, I’m not sure who that guy actually is right now), and it will be easier to find the right candidate if a guy like Huckabee isn’t riding along, confusing the race.

Just one blogger’s opinion…

Read the rest.

Update: Malkin has much more.