The Passing of Chief Justice William Rehnquist

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. Our prayers are with his family during this time.

When William Rehnquist was sworn-in as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court on September 26, 1986, President Ronald Reagan said 'I nominated William Rehnquist because I believe he will be a Chief Justice of historic stature.' Justice Rehnquist has earned that distinction. Throughout his 33-year tenure on the Supreme Court, with more than 18 years as Chief Justice, William Rehnquist has been a monument of integrity, principle and judicial restraint.

He worked tirelessly to limit the reach of the federal government and to reaffirm federalism as the framers of the Constitution intended. Justice Rehnquist's outstanding service has earned him the gratitude and respect of the American people.

President George W. Bush has nominated Federal Appeals Court judge John Roberts, his original choice to replace retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, to be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.  The next Chief Justice will be only the 17th in our Nation's history. As President Bush and the United States Senate move forward on Judge Roberts' confirmation hearing, as well as the nomination of Justice O'Connor's replacement, this process stands as a historic opportunity to renew the American people's faith in our constitutional system.

My hope is that the nomination process moves forward in a deliberate, thoughtful and honorable manner."