United States President George W Bush on Monday reluctantly accepted the resignation of attorney general Alberto Gonzales and accused the Democrats of dragging a good name through the mud for political reasons.
"Al Gonzales is a man of integrity, decency and principle. I have reluctantly accepted his resignation with great appreciation for the service that he has provided for our country," Bush said in Texas.
"It's sad that we live in a time when a talented and honourable person like Alberto Gonzales is impeded from doing important work because his good name was dragged through the mud for political reasons," Bush said.
Gonzales, one of Bush's closest advisors, announced his resignation early Monday, ending a month-long standoff with Congressmen over issues like domestic spying programme and firing of federal prosecutors.
"As attorney general and before that as White House counsel, Al Gonzales has played a critical role in shaping our policies in the war on terror and has worked tirelessly to make this country safer," Bush said.
"The Patriot Act, the Military Commissions Act and other important laws bear his imprint. Under his leadership, the justice department has made a priority of protecting children from the Internet predators, made enforcement of civil rights laws a top priority," he said.
Bush also said solicitor general Paul Clement will officiate as attorney general when Gonzales steps down on September 17.
"Paul is one of the finest lawyers in the US. As solicitor general, Paul has a representation of fairness and earned the respect and confidence of the entire justice department," Bush said.
