Bush revives stalled judicial nominations: Six of his conservative judicial picks return, angering Democrats.
But several Senate Democrats were angered by the news that Bush wanted approval of some controversial nominees.
They include the Pentagon's general counsel, William J. Haynes II of Virginia, who was criticized for approving the harsh interrogation methods at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; former mining industry lobbyist William G. Myers III of Idaho, who has been targeted for defeat by environmentalists; and U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle, who has been opposed by civil rights advocates.
"Democrats have asked the president to be bipartisan, but this is a clear slap in the face at our request," said Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.).
ACLU Urges Senate to Reject New Specter NSA Legislation, Bill Would Face Reconciliation with Flawed Wilson Measure
The following may be attributed to Caroline Fredrickson, Director of the ACLU Washington Legislative Office:
"Last Tuesday, the American people spoke clearly - they want a Congress willing to serve as an independent branch and stand up to the president’s ongoing abuse of power. President Bush insists on congressional approval of his warrantless spying program while the Republicans still have control. He wants Congress to cover his tracks and provide immunity to those that broke the law. Congress should be investigating this illegal program, not approving it.
Bush Will Push Bolton Nomination in Lame Duck Session
At today’s White House press conference, Tony Snow revealed that the White House has officially renominated John Bolton as U.N ambassador and plans to push for his confirmation during the lame duck session of Congress. Bolton, who has repeatedly failed to gain Senate confirmation, is one of Bush’s most divisive nominations. The move comes one day after Bush pledged to “to work with the new Congress in a bipartisan way.”
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