WASHINGTON —  Reaction from Vice President Dick Cheney on Friday to the resignation of his chief of staff, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, as released by the White House:

"Mr. Libby has informed me that he is resigning to fight the charges brought against him. I have accepted his decision with deep regret.

Scooter Libby is one of the most capable and talented individuals I have ever known. He has given many years of his life to public service and has served our nation tirelessly and with great distinction.

In our system of government an accused person is presumed innocent until a contrairness to all those involved, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the charges or on any facts relating to the proceeding."