Even Democratic Sen. Max Baucus says he is “troubled” by the recess appointment of Donald Berwick to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services:

“I’m troubled that, rather than going through the standard nomination process, Dr. Berwick was recess appointed.  Senate confirmation of presidential appointees is an essential process prescribed by the Constitution that serves as a check on executive power and protects Montanans and all Americans by ensuring that crucial questions are asked of the nominee – and answered.

I wrote about the recess appointment here. And more about Berwick’s disturbing views on rationing health care to the sick here.

Among the statements that Berwick will not have to answer for: “Cynics beware, I am romantic about the (British) National Health Service; I love it.”