January 30, 2004

Senator William H. Frist

Senate Majority Leader

416 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510

Via Email

Dear Senator Frist:

We, the undersigned, are the four Republican-appointed members of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Having become aware of the difficulties Manny Miranda is facing, we write simply to express our support for him.

We have known Mr. Miranda since he joined the staff of Senator Orrin Hatch and have dealt with him extensively on matters related to civil rights. We know him only as a man of great professional integrity–exceedingly thoughtful on issues of substance and committed to the highest moral and ethical standards. We are shocked and saddened by the media onslaught and hope that this matter can be resolved promptly and fairly.

Sincerely yours,

Abigail Thernstrom

Peter N. Kirsanow

Jennifer C. Braceras

Russell G. Redenbaugh