Time to act on court nominee

To the editor:

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer of New York, a prominent member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, was overheard talking about how "we're going to go to war over the president's judicial nomination," adding, "It's about how it affects the overall makeup of the court." Schumer has proven that the Democrats have no intention of having a fair hearing and that they have a litmus test for nominees. Schumer should recuse himself from the committee because of his obvious bias.

If we ever want to see our children protected again, and if we want the many liberties that have been taken from us by the current U.S. Supreme Court returned to us, then the president must resist the temptation to nominate his best friend, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, who is a moderate. And he must keep his promise to his supporters to nominate only strict constructionists who will interpret the Constitution rather than legislate from the bench.

Gonzales is qualified for and has accepted the job of attorney general, and he should complete his term in that office, especially in view of the recent terrorist attacks in London.

Call the White House (202-456-1111) and tell President Bush that you want justices like Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas nominated. You can reach any senator by calling 202-224-3121. Tell your senator to support the president's nominee.

CHRISTINE E. STEPHENS, Cape Girardeau