With regard to Harriet Miers, the former White House counsel who was also subpoenaed today, Specter said that the committee has “really had no response from the White House” regarding possible testimony on the firing of several U.S. attorneys.

The senator added that he would like to accommodate the White House to make sure that testimony of key staff can be provided, but he insisted on having all statements be transcribed, which the administration opposes.

However, Specter also said that he does not believe that “a confrontation is not in the public interest,” noting that such a fight between the branches would possibly drag out until after President Bush has left office.

Asked about whether he is siding with the president, who has argued that the investigation is being dragged out for political reasons, or with Democrats, who say the probe is taking so long because the White House is stonewalling and not providing witnesses and testimony, Specter said: “It is very hard to identify the draggers and the draggees. It’s like ‘worse’ and ‘worser.’”