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American Morning

America's New War: Supreme Court Opens Session With Statement on Terrorism, Disbarment of Former President Clinton

Aired October 01, 2001 - 10:32   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
JOHN KING, CNN ANCHOR: We want to turn our attention now to the United States Supreme Court. This is the first day of the court's session, always a day in which the court receive a great deal of attention.

I want to turn now to CNN's Tim O'Brien, standing by at the court.

Has the court began its business, Tim. It could not help but make note of the tragic developments.

TIM O'BRIEN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right, John. The chief justice began the session this morning with a statement about the terrorism: "Let's take a moment to recognize the terrible loss caused by the terrorist attacks on America that occurred on September 11. I know our hearts go out to the families of those killed and injured. We extend our condolences to the solicitor general of the United States, Theodore Olson, for the loss of his wife, Barbara."

Ted Olsen was a frequent advocate here at the Supreme Court. He was in the courtroom today, and as solicitor general, he'll be arguing some important cases later this month.

"In the aftermath of the attacks," said Rehnquist, "We have witnessed extraordinary bravery and compassion from Americans from all walks of life. Let us take a moment to grieve with those who mourn and honor those who have heroically performed their duty."

The court paused for a moment of silence, and then the chief justice released an orders list that did have some news on it. It announced the disbarment of former President Bill Clinton from practice in the U.S. Supreme Court. It does not mean he can't practice in Arkansas, but in this court, he has been disbarred and is not permitted to practice.

It also denied a new trial to Terry Nichols in connection with the Oklahoma City bombing.

Then it went on the hear the first argument in the term, a prisoners rights case. And as of this moment, it appears to be business as usual at the Supreme Court.

KING: Tim O'Brien, thank you very much for that. TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com