President trumps Gibbs at today's briefing

In a surprise visit to the White House briefing room, President Barack Obama told reporters and the nation that he had just gotten off the phone with Supreme Court Justice Souter, who called to announce he is stepping down from the high court.   It was the President's first time at the briefing room lectern.

"He came to the bench with no particular ideology," the President said about Souter, "He never sought to promote a political agenda, and he consistently defied labels and rejected absolutes - focusing instead on just one task: a just result in the case that was before him."

President Obama told reporters Souter approached judging like he approaches life with a "feverish work ethic and good sense of humor." Mr. Obama said that he told Souter that he is incredibly grateful for his dedicated service, and he thanked him on behalf of the American people.Justice Souter sent the President a brief letter announcing his plans, "When the Supreme Court rises for the summer recess this year, I intend to retire from regular service as a Justice."

With Souter's official announcement, the Obama administration can begin the vetting process for a picking its first nominee for the Supreme Court. Souter often sided with the liberals on the court. Any replacement by the Obama administration is not expected to change the balance of power.