MIERS WITHDRAWS NOMINATION THIS MORNING,
BBC CALLS IT A BUSH SETBACK
VIDEO HERE
BUSH SAYS HE “RELUCTANTLY” ACCEPTED HER WITHDRAWAL,
REUTERS VIDEO EXPLAINS HERE
FOX NEWS HAS MORE ON THE BATTLE FOR THE BENCH,
VIDEO HERE
Harriet Miers withdrew her nomination to be a Supreme Court justice Thursday in the face of stiff opposition and mounting criticism about her qualifications.
President Bush said he reluctantly accepted her decision to withdraw, after weeks of insisting that he did not want her to step down. He blamed her withdrawal on calls in the Senate for the release of internal White House documents that the administration has insisted were protected by executive privilege.
“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. “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.”
Bless Harriet Miers.
The Republican Party will certainly survive this. But, it’s back to the drawing board for President Bush. Many conservatives voted for President Bush with hopes that he would be able to change the direction of the court. Let’s hope that the next judicial rabbit President Bush pulls out of his hat is more familiar to his audience.
Next!
RedState has the Statement by the President.
Captain’s Quarters says the president saves face.
Confirm Them has details on the withdrawal.
Michelle Malkin has a huge roundup and feels relief.
The Polipundit Group Blog has a variety of reactions.
Instapundit says she is to be commended.
California Conservative is ahead of the rest with predictions!
The Bronx Blogger is now officially withdrawing his support for Harriet Miers.
Wizbang has more from Trent Lott.
Hugh Hewitt is not pleased.
The Corner says it was “Brilliantly Rovian!”
Another Rovian Conspiracy says she was a lovely lady.
La Shawn Barber has thoughts for the next nominee.
Wow! PunditGuy has the roundup of all roundups!