Bush’s choice prompts opening arguments

Re Harriet Miers appointment to the Supreme Court

It wasn’t that long ago that a woman heading up a major law firm, or serving as head of a statewide bar association, or being named counsel to the president, was big news and proclaimed as evidence that the glass ceiling was being shattered. Now that President Bush has named a woman who has accomplished all of these things to the Supreme Court, the chorus of naysayers who write editorials and letters to the Times see little accomplishment in Harriett Miers’ resume (Oct. 4).

The only thing Miers has not done to earn the appointment is to serve as a judge. But, historically, some of our best justices came to the Supreme Court without a judicial background. Someday, I’d like to see a president appoint a non-attorney to the court. Some everyday common sense would do some good there and on courts throughout the federal system.

LOU BANAS

Brea

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Although I would prefer that Sandra Day O’Connor’s replacement not be a political conservative, Miers does not deserve June Bailey’s denigrating description of her as a “man in a dress” (letter, Oct. 4). Single, childless women also bring a female perspective to national and local affairs. To suggest otherwise is unfair and uncharitable.

LINDA TIGNER

Pomona

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So our esteemed leader has never discussed abortion with his Supreme Court justice nominee (Oct. 5), close confidant, friend, staunch supporter, lawyer, etc., over all of those years? And if we can believe that....

CONRAD J. DOERR

Palm Springs

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The fact that Miers thinks the president is the smartest person she has ever known is cause enough to keep her off the Supreme Court.

GERALD ORCHOLSKI

Pasadena