As was widely reported earlier this week, Harriet Miers the Texas lawyer controversially nominated to the US Supreme Court by President George W Bush, has withdrawn her application, leaving the White House scratching their heads for a replacement. Mr Damian reports exclusively on some closed door discussions.

Ms Miers, who had served as White House counsel for Mr Bush but had no judicial experience and a number of outstanding parking tickets. Following her withdrawl the President has moved swiftly to avoid any potential embarassment and to ensure that another suitable candidate can be proposed - and put in post - as quickly as possible.

Wet
With the White House under increasing scrutiny following possible further indictments of senior administration figures related to a CIA leak case, the President and his men are keen to ensure that delays and any signs of weakness are avoided.

As a result, it's no surprise that President Bush has done as he usual does in this situation - looking close to home for the solution.

Mr Damian understands that in the past few days Mr Bush's brother - the Florda Governor, Jed - and his Mother, Barbara, have each been approached about the job.

Oranges & Lemons
Jed however decided that he is too busy overcoming his widely publicised health problem: hanging chads, whilst Dubya's mother is currently establishing The Barbara Bush Foundation for Increasing Racial Awareness and Integration, in New Orleans.

As a result, Mr Bush's options are limited, and so he's turned to his best friend, Barney Bush to come to his rescue.

Barney, the President's Scottish Terrier, was born on September 30, 2000. Although just four years old, Barney has 'a wealth of judicial and philosophical knowledge' said one staffer.

Barney and Karl Rove discuss Iraq

Others however have questioned his views - as yet unknown publically - on the touchstone issue of abortion, while others doubted his understanding of constitutional law. To date few have noted that it may not be consititutionally possibly for a dog to take on this role.

The mood on the Hill though seems to be open minded - 'it's a dog eat dog world out there' said one critic.

Barney was unavailable for comment as he was busy licking his own gentalia at the time.

Barney is a frequent visitor to the Oval Office

Posted by damian at October 30, 2005 05:20 PM