“THIRD STRIKE” LOOMS FOR PRESIDENT BUSH IF HE FAILS TO NOMINATE LATINO TO SUPREME COURT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) released the following statement directed to President Bush in response to Harriet Miers withdrawing her nomination to the United States Supreme Court:
“Today, the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) for the third time, urges President George W. Bush to take advantage of an unprecedented opportunity to nominate the first Latino to the United States Supreme Court. We were extremely disappointed that the President passed over the large pool of talented Latinos committed to public service during the first two nomination opportunities. Being bypassed a third time, however, would be “strike three” for the Bush Administration in its relationship with the Latino community. Still, we remain hopeful, and believe that President Bush will fulfill his commitment to nominate a Hispanic from the vast group of qualified Latinos capable of serving on the United States Supreme Court and ensure that the U.S. Supreme Court is truly reflective of our nation’s diverse population.”