COPENHAGEN, Denmark -President Bush, shadowed in Europe by a pressing concern back in Washington, said yesterday he will not select a Supreme Court nominee based on his or her views on abortion or other hot-button political issues.
He urged senators to act in a dignified way in what is expected to be a contentious battle over confirming his first nominee to the nation's highest court.
Bush visited this Scandinavian nation to thank Danes for sending troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. He also strongly defended his decisions on Iraq, climate change, imprisoned terrorism suspects and aid to Africa -all of which have made him unpopular in Europe.
I understand that people aren't going to agree with decisions I make
Bush said as he stood alongside Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen outside a white mansion that serves as his official summer residence. I truly believe we're laying the foundation for peace.
Bush made his fourth trip to Europe this year just days after Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor announced her retirement. The president said that as he reviews candidates to replace her, I'll try to assess their character their interests.
Bush said he would have no litmus test that disqualifies candidates because of their opinions on abortion and gay marriage.
I'll pick people who one
can do the job
and people who are honest
people who are bright and people who will strictly interpret the Constitution and not use the bench to legislate from
Bush said.
Bush named former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson to help shepherd his nominee through the Senate.
Thompson, a Republican and actor on the NBC television series Law & Order
agreed to accept the post in a telephone conversation with the president Monday, White House press secretary Scott McClellan said. Ed Gillespie, former Republican National Committee chairman, also will help the administration push Bush's nominee.
Bush spent a few hours reviewing material on more than a half dozen potential replacements for O'Connor on the flight to Denmark. He has said he will spend a few weeks narrowing a list of candidates and then interviewing some, and his goal is to see a new justice in place by the time the court begins its new term in October.
Bush bristled at criticism of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, a longtime friend who is often mentioned as a potential nominee for the high court. Conservatives said they aren't convinced Gonzales' beliefs on affirmative action and abortion are far enough to the right for their liking.
I don't like it when a friend gets criticized
Bush said. I'm loyal to my friends.
