Miers Nomination Withdrawn

One of the really cool things about being in Washington is that I can scoop all the other Citizens! Gotta love the time zones!

Miers has withdrawn her nomination. Surprise, Surprise. What is interesting to me is something in her statement. She says that she strongly believes in the independence of the branches of government. And then she goes on to say that her hearings would jeopardize . . . wait for it . . . the independence of THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH . . . because it would require the White House to turn over protected documents. That is very telling of her priorities.

And then, take time to listen or read Harry Reid's comments. He actually sounds genuinely sad to see Miers withdraw. His statement sound almost like he favored her nomination. He said that he was pleased that she was not an Ivy League lawyer and that she was the type of person that the Senators wanted. WHA???? Check out this from Oct 3 Harriet Miers- Initial Reaction
He goes so far as to say he suggested Miers as a nominee! And then he says it was the far right that killed this nominee. The implication is clear. It wasn't the Democrats. It was your own fault for pandering to the extreme right. He says as much. He even mentions sexism of the far right as part of the reason. I have mixed feelings about his statement. I think that part of the reason is how contrite he sounded.

And the timing is great. Washington now will burry the story of the indictment of White House Aids in the Wilson affaire.