After months of intense scrutiny from the press, public and the Senate Judiciary Committee, beleaguered Attorney General Alberto Gonzales has followed in Karl Rove’s footsteps, becoming the second major member of President Bush’s inner circle to resign in this last phase of Bush’s presidency. Gonzales called it quits on Monday, sparking a flurry of reactions on Capitol Hill.

The Politico:

In a brief statement before cameras at the Justice Department, Gonzales said he had met with Bush on Sunday and informed him of his decision to resign, effective Sept. 17. He made no references to the controversies that hounded him from office.

“Let me say that it’s been one of my greatest privileges to lead the Department of Justice,” Gonzales said. “I have great admiration and respect for the men and women who work here. I have made a point as attorney general to personally meet as many of them as possible, and today I want to again thank them for their service to our nation. … I am profoundly grateful to President Bush for his friendship and for the many opportunities he has given me to serve the American people.”

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