She didn't strike me as self-righteous; just righteous. Given what her character was actually doing in that episode, I don't see how you find her unlikeable. (And how sweet she was with her daughter? Come on.)
The Jimmy McNulty/Davis McAlary comparisons will no doubt be made, and I look forward to following this new affable Irish fuck-up who will probably get laid in every episode. Steve Zahn is hilarious! "I will have satisfaction."
The Walter Sobchak/Creighton Bernette comparison is also valid, but that's just what Goodman sounds like when he yells about the government, I guess.
Khandi Alexander, Wendell Pierce, and Clarke Peters all killed it, the "Buona Sera" montage made me cry, and the first appearance of the Mardi Gras Chief was amazing. (Does anyone else find themselves wanting to own a furry tambourine?)
I'm just so happy there's a new top-tier drama for Mike to crap on. SPRING HAS SPRUNG!