President Barack Obama announces the nomination of Chief Judge Merrick Garland to the U.S. Supreme Court to fill the seat left open by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. Obama says Garland is experienced and respected by his peers and recounts Garland's education and qualifications. Obama criticizes the Senate Republican leadership who have stated they will hold no confirmation hearings on any nominee until after the Presidential election in November. Garland says the nomination is the greatest honor of his life and looks forward to the confirmation process. Held in the White House Rose Garden.
Award winning poet Stephen Dunn reads from his new book "Different hours" and a poem from a previously published book, as the featured speaker at the annual Michigan State University English Department Awards celebration. MSU Poet in Residence Diane Wakoski convenes the event and introduces the winners of the Jim Cash Creative Writing Awards.
President George W. Bush talks about his tax cut proposals and the state of the economy. Bush asserts that his plan, which includes across-the-board tax cuts, will be a better plan than the Democrat's plan to provide a $300 rebate per person. Bush also argues that his plan will be better for the economy long-term. Held at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
U.S. President George W. Bush talks about his budget plan. Bush asserts that the main focus in his presidency is education reform and that his budget has a big focus on education. Bush also discusses the importance of the press in maintaining civil discourse in the country.