White House Gaggle
October 17, 2005
Briefer: Scott McClellan
President’s Schedule:
The President had his usual briefings this morning followed by a meeting with Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov. White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan described Bulgaria as a good ally in the war on terrorism and a strong partner in the cause of freedom. McClellan said the United States appreciates Bulgaria’s many contributions in Afghanistan and Iraq. President Bush will continue the morning by meeting with former Texas Supreme Court Justices. The justices are all individuals who know Harriet Miers very well and strongly support her confirmation for the Supreme Court. The group consists of the following participants: former Chief Justice John L. Hill, Jr., Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, former Associate Justices of Texas Supreme Court, James Baker, Eugene Cook and Raul Gonzalez. Tonight, the President is pleased to host an Iftaar Dinner with Ambassadors and Muslim leaders at the White House. In November, the President looks forward to attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting held in the Republic of Korea. Following the meeting he will travel to Japan, China and Mongolia.
Harriet Miers Nomination:
Harriet Miers is working on the questionnaire for the Senate Judiciary Committee and she is also continuing her courtesy visits with members of the Senate. By the end of day, she will have met with a total of 18 Senators. When asked if there is a deadline for Miers’ questionnaire, McClellan said that she indicated that she would work to return it very quickly. As of last week she thought it would be completed in the early part of this week. McClellan talked about the group of Texas judges in Washington to support Miers, “The former judges that are here today know her well and know that she is someone who is committed to strictly interpreting our Constitution and our laws, and not legislating from the bench. She has great legal quality and the highest integrity. She will make an outstanding Supreme Court Justice. I think her record speaks for itself.” McClellan is confident that Harriet Miers is looking forward to going before the Judiciary Committee to answer questions. McClellan said it is the United States Senate that makes the decision and her record and experience are for all Americans to get to know better.
President’s Trip to Mongolia:
When asked why the President is going to Mongolia as part of his trip to Asia, McClellan said that President Bush just visited with the leader of Mongolia and was invited to visit. The President is very much looking forward to his trip to Asia.
