Thursday, October 27, 2005

Oh, the irony...

I think I got an answer to my question...

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Bush on Thursday accepted the withdrawal of Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers, according to a statement from the White House.

In her letter to the president, Miers said she was "concerned that the confirmation process presents a burden for the White House and its staff and it is not in the best interest of the country."

The White House said Miers had to withdraw over concerns that senators wanted documents of privileged discussions between the president and his top lawyer. (Watch video: Withdrawal accepted -- 1:38)

"It is clear that senators would not be satisfied until they gained access to internal documents concerning advice provided during her tenure at the White House -- disclosures that would undermine a president's ability to receive candid counsel," Bush said. (Full statement)(Miers letter)

But Democratic and Republican senators told CNN's Ed Henry that they hadn't asked for privileged documents.

Bush vowed to fill the vacancy "in a timely manner."

"Harriet Miers' decision demonstrates her deep respect for this essential aspect of the constitutional separation of powers -- and confirms my deep respect and admiration for her," Bush added.

Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, who said he had recommended that Bush nominate Miers, blamed "the radical right wing of the Republican Party" for killing her nomination.

"Apparently, Ms. Miers did not satisfy those who want to pack the Supreme Court with rigid ideologues," the Nevada Democrat said.


Her resignation is probably the only thing close to a "save face" way out of this for the conservatives. Maybe with this nomination Bush will nominate someone better known for their conservative legal opinions. From the get go, I didn't mind having to go to war with the Dems over a nominee.

Looks like there may be a battle brewing.