Today, the White House announced it has called on Law & Order District Attorney Fred Thompson to shepherd the next Supreme Court nominee through the nomination process. The former Tennessee Senator is also well-known for his supporting role in Die Hard 2, starring Bruce Willis. Below is an exclusive ThinkProgress interview with Thompson from earlier today.
Question: We were surprised to learn this morning that you would be temporarily leaving your successful acting career on Law & Order to guide the nominee through the Supreme Court nomination process on behalf of the White House. What was your response when President Bush called you on the phone?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
Question: And if that’s what you told the President, what are you saying to all the conservative interest groups who want the president’s ear on the next Supreme Court nominee?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
Question: What were your marching orders from Karl Rove?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
Question: News reports indicate that the White House and the Senate Republican leadership have been asking right-wing groups to cool their rhetoric. Can you describe the scene at the White House over the past few days?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
Question: President Bush has said he’d like to nominate a candidate in the mold of Scalia and Thomas. What are you going to say about that?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
Last question: Do you mind if we put a transcript of this interview up on our blog?
THOMPSON: listen to his response here
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