On Capitol Hill, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is fighting to keep his job. On Thursday he testified for five hours before the Senate Judiciary Committee. He defended his role in the firing of eight U.S. Attorneys.

Alberto Gonzales: “While the process that led to the resignations was flawed, I firmly believe that nothing improper occurred. U.S. attorneys serve at the pleasure of the president. There is nothing improper about making a change for poor management, policy differences or questionable judgment, or simply to have another qualified person serve. I think we agree on that.”

Republican Senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma joined Democrats in calling for Gonzales to resign. Lawmakers repeatedly confronted Gonzales with documents and sworn testimony that showed he was more involved in the dismissals than he has contended.

Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA): Were you prepared for the press conference where you said there weren’t any discussions involving you?”

Alberto Gonzales: “Senator, I’ve already said that I misspoke. It was my mistake.”

Sen. Specter: “I’m asking you, were you prepared? You interjected that you’re always prepared. Were you prepared for that press conference?”

Alberto Gonzales: “I didn’t say I am always prepared. I said I prepared for every hearing.”

After the hearing, the White House released a statement saying that President Bush was pleased with the attorney general’s testimony today and that he still has full confidence in him. We’ll have more on the Gonzales hearing after headlines.