WASHINGTON, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Democrats are calling for a delay in confirmation hearings for John Roberts, the presidential nominee for Supreme Court Chief Justice.
Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said a postponement of Tuesday's planned hearings would allow for a greater focus on Hurricane Katrina's relief efforts, and also show respect for former Chief Justice Wiliam Rehnquist, who died Saturday.
"A brief postponement will not disadvantage anyone," Reid said Sunday.
Monday, President George Bush made a surprise announcement, saying he wanted the conservative Roberts considered for the role as chief justice of the high court, rather than just an associate to replace retiring Sandra Day O'Connor.
Meanwhile, the Washington Post said some Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans urged the panel to stay on schedule.
"I think Bill Rehnquist would be the first to say he wants them to go forward," Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, told CNN.
