update: For a more recent list, click here.
Alberto Gonzales is working hard to shore up support on the Hill, but there are a number of Republicans who aren’t worth a phone call.
Below is a list of GOP lawmakers and other notables who want Gonzales gone. In the interest of clairty, we’ve chosen to limit it to those who’ve made unequivocal statements — if the list included those who’ve merely expressed skepticism, it would be much, much longer.
Here it is:
The Senate:
Sen. Gordon Smith (R-OR)- “For the Justice Department to be effective before the U.S. Senate, it would be helpful.”
Sen. John Sununu (R-NH)- “The president should fire the attorney general and replace him as soon as possible with someone who can provide strong, aggressive leadership.”
The House:
Rep. Vern Elhers (R-MI)- “Since he’s such a close, personal friend, he’s hurt the President by what he’s doing, he should have the politeness to offer his resignation.”
Rep. Paul Gillmor (R-OH)- ‘Given the totality of the circumstances, I think it would be better for the President and the Department if the Attorney General were to step down.”
Rep. Dana Rohrbacher (R-CA)- “Even for Republicans this is a warning sign ⦠saying there needs to be a change.”
Rep. Lee Terry (R-NE)- “Frankly, until these statements came out that contradicted his first statement, I was backing him, saying that he shouldn’t resign. Now I think that he should.”
Other Notables:
The National Review Editorial Board– “Alberto Gonzales should resign. The Justice Department needs a fresh start.”
Mark Corallo, Justice Department spokesman (2002-2005)- “Alberto Gonzales’ loyalty to George Bush has got to trump George Bush’s loyalty to Alberto Gonzales.”
How much longer will the list grow after the April 17 hearing?
Note: If we’ve missed any other notable calls for the AG’s head, let us know in the comments.