Chief Justice of the United States, William H Rehnquist, dies at age 80

September 3, 2005



United States  has died of complications from. He was 80. Rehnquist died surrounded by friends and family in his, home.

"President Bush and are deeply saddened by the news," said White House counselor Dan Bartlett. "It's a tremendous loss for our nation."

Rehnquist's death creates a second opening in the United States Supreme Court. The first vacancy occurred when  announced her retirement on July 1, 2005, though O'Connor will remain in office until her successor has been appointed. Hearings for nominee John G. Roberts, Jr. are set to begin on Tuesday, September 6, 2005.

Rehnquist first joined the Supreme Court, the highest court in the U.S., as an Associate Justice in 1972. He was elevated to the leading position of Chief Justice in 1986 and presided over the court for the next 19 years.