White House Stands By Controversial Judicial Nominee After Senate Dems Bail On Him

President Obama is sticking by Michael Boggs.

WASHINGTON — President Obama is standing by controversial judicial nominee Michael Boggs White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said Monday, despite a powerful new Democratic voice calling for the administration to scrap his nomination.

On Monday Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy, who's committee has jurisdiction over judicial nominations, urged the administration to withdraw the nomination of Boggs, who in the past has supported flying the Confederate Flag over the Georgia Capitol, restrictions on abortion and opposition to expanded rights for same-sex couples.

"He doesn't have the votes," Leahy told the New York Times Monday.

That led to progressive groups renewing their attacks on Boggs.

"We echo Sen. Leahy's call for Michael Boggs to withdraw his nomination. As we've said from the moment his nomination became public, Boggs lacks both credibility and a demonstrated commitment to equal justice under the law - qualities necessary for a lifetime appointment to the federal bench," NARAL Pro-Choice America president Ilyse Hogue said in a statement.

But despite opposition from Leahy, Earnest said Obama remains committed to Boggs, who's nomination came as part of a deal with Republicans to move other nominees. Asked if the White House will join the call for Boggs to withdraw his name, Earnest said, "no."

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