WHO knew Craig T. Nelson had so much charisma? [7 Oct 2000, p.55]

If issues don't get in the way, CBS' The District is a good show - may be one of the TV season's most watchable new dramas. [7 Oct 2000, p.1E]

Though it's far from perfect -- and Nelson's flamboyant, over-the-top performance is bound to irritate some viewers -- "The District" explores racial polarization and urban political attitudes in sometimes compelling fashion. And there's an interesting, racially diverse cast of players, with veteran character actress Lynne Thigpen ("Shaft"), a real standout as Mannion's crime stats wizard Ella Farmer. [6 Oct 2000, p.12D]

Mannion is most appealing when he doesn't play the hero. [7 Oct 2000, p.E1]

The District will either have to ignore race and lapse into television fantasyland or embrace its realism and become more sophisticated. (A tiresome political correctness would be worst of all. ) Either way, it's halfway there. [6 Oct 2000, p.E1]

It's irresponsible for a show like The District, which had the opportunity to be racially diverse in not only its casting but its portrayals, to fall back on racial stereotypes. [7 Oct 2000, p.1E]

Just about worthless, and as a bonus, also highly irritating. [6 Oct 2000, p.F1]