"I think Attorney General Gonzales has made the right decision," said Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah. "As his credibility has eroded over the past few months, questions have persisted about whether he can effectively lead the Justice Department. There should be nothing partisan about the responsibilities of those who work for this federal agency. It's troubling that Mr. Gonzales may have allowed political pressure to dictate hiring and firing decisions there. I hope his replacement will restore confidence in the Justice Department's ability to ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans."

Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah, also said Gonzales made the right choice.

"It's clear the situation had become untenable and I think the attorney general made the right decision — both for himself and the president," Bennett said in a statement. "He has serviced the country to his best ability and I wish him well."

Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah, said: "Attorney General Gonzales is a good man and a dedicated public servant who rightly focused the Department of Justice on winning the war on terror. I wish him the best in the future. Now is the time to end the political witch hunts. Congress should concentrate on solving problems rather than chasing its tail."

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