Facing stiff scrutiny as she enters Senate confirmation hearings for her U.S. Supreme Court nomination, White House Counsel Harriet Miers yesterday withdrew her nomination.

Miers’ withdrawal drew different reactions from area House members. “I think Harriet Miers made a choice for her own self and a life she thought was best for her and this was the choice to withdraw her name,” said Republican Congresswoman Sue Kelly of Katonah.

“I can’t help but feel sorry for her, actually, for having been nominated to serve on the Supreme Court not having any background and experience that would qualify her for that particular position, and apparently, based upon the interviews that she’s had, not really being up to the job,” said Democratic Congressman Maurice Hinchey of Hurley.

President Bush said he will name a replacement nominee in a “timely manner.”