AG Back on the Job

Less than 24 hours after he collapsed on stage while giving a speech, Attorney General Michael Mukasey is back to work. Justice Department spokeswoman Gina Talamona said in a statement that the attorney general left the hospital today at 12:15 and went directly to the department. He had lunch with his wife, sat through his daily national security and department briefings, and returned phone calls from well-wishers, including president-elect Barack Obama.

He also sent this note to Federalist Society members:

Dear Friends,

Well, as I was saying...

Let me please begin by underscoring what an honor it was to speak to you last night.  I am, as you might imagine, quite embarrassed to have collapsed last night.  I hope that embarrassment is not the product of undue human pride, or at least not principally so.  I am embarrassed in part because I fear I ruined your evening and caused you concern -  for that I am truly sorry.  Equally important, I hope the shortened conclusion of the speech did not detract from the message I hoped to convey: Specifically that the issues of law and policy relating to our continuing national security are real, and are worthy of the most careful thought and deliberation so as to keep the American people safe. The Federalist Society has spent the last 25-plus years promoting thoughtful and fair debate concerning the critical legal and public policy issues facing our nation.  It was an honor to address you last night, and I urge you to continue the fine efforts of the Federalist Society in the future.

Finally, I was truly humbled to hear all of the prayers and well wishes sent on my behalf from attendees at the dinner.  Thank you all.  I am, fortunately, well, and I too pray for all of our good health and for the future of the Nation we all love.

Very Truly Yours,

Michael Mukasey