Seeking justice...Swat battle...Obama's condolences

Washington (AP) President Barack Obama says he's looking for a Supreme Court nominee with the intellect for the job, as well as a "common touch" and the ability to "stand in somebody else's shoes." The president, who's expected to announce his choice next week, spoke in a C-SPAN interview. The new justice will succeed the retiring David Souter.

ISLAMABAD (AP) Fighting continues in Pakistan's Swat Valley between security forces and Taliban militants. The fighting in Swat's main urban center is a critical phase in the effort to wrest the northwest region near Afghanistan out of insurgent hands.

KABUL (AP) The U.S. military says international and Afghan forces have killed 60 militants and seized 102 tons of opium poppy seeds, drugs and chemicals during a four-day operation in southern Afghanistan. The military says it was one of the biggest drug seizures by foreign troops in Afghanistan since their arrival in 2001.

WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama is offering his condolences to the family of former South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun and the Korean people. Roh jumped to his death today from a high cliff while hiking near his home; he'd been caught up in a corruption investigation. Obama says Roh contributed to a "strong and vital" relationship between the U.S. and South Korea.

GREENVILLE, Maine (AP) A boa named "Buddy" has a new home, after escaping from his cage at Greenville, Maine, High School. The two-foot-long boa constrictor disappeared May 12, prompting a search. It turns out Buddy was hiding inside a computer printer that ended up in somebody's home. Buddy now lives with a teacher.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-23-09 1340CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list