Bush condemns Jordan attacks, offers aid in manhunt
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President George W. Bush condemned Wednesday's suicide bombings in Jordan as "barbaric acts" and pledged U.S. support in the hunt for those responsible. "Today's terrorist bombings in Amman were cowardly attacks on innocent Jordanians and their guests," Bush said in a statement issued by the White House.
Democrats scrutinize Alito in Vanguard case
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senate Democrats on Wednesday stepped up their scrutiny of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito's role in a 2002 case that they say could pose a possible conflict of interest. When Alito became a federal appeals court judge in 1990, he promised to recuse himself from cases involving Vanguard mutual funds, because he had personal investments through the company. Yet he participated in a case decided in 2002 involving Vanguard.
US House backs bill to improve court protection
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill on Wednesday to increase penalties for crimes against judges, lawyers and other courthouse personnel and help state and local governments improve court security. The "Secure Access to Justice and Court Protection" legislation was approved 375-45. The White House generally supports the bill, although it would like to see some changes if the Senate takes up companion legislation.
US House suspends push for Alaska oil drilling
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives abandoned, at least temporarily, a drive to open Alaska's National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling after concluding on Wednesday the initiative was threatening passage of a huge bill to cut spending. "ANWR and OCS will be out" of the legislation, said House Budget Committee Chairman Jim Nussle, an Iowa Republican.
