Factbox: Reaction to Justice Stevens' retirement

(Reuters) - Justice John Paul Stevens announced on Friday he will retire this summer after almost 35 years on the U.S. Supreme Court. The departure of the court's leading liberal voice will give Democratic President Barack Obama the opportunity to appoint his second justice.

Reaction to Stevens' retirement included praise for his judicial manner, as well as indications that minority Republicans in the Senate could put up resistance to Obama's selection.

Following are reactions to Stevens' resignation and the looming confirmation process for his successor:

Obama:

"Once again, I view the process of selecting a Supreme Court nominee as among my most serious responsibilities as president. And while we cannot replace Justice Stevens' experience or wisdom, I will seek someone in the coming weeks with similar qualities, an independent mind, a record of excellence and integrity, a fierce dedication to the rule of law and a keen understanding of how the law affects the daily lives of the American people."

U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, a Democrat and chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which will consider Obama's nominee before the full Senate votes on it:

"I hope that senators on both sides of the aisle will make this process a thoughtful and civil discourse. I expect President Obama to continue his practice of consulting with members on both sides of the aisle as he considers this important nomination."

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell:

"Even if Justice Stevens' liberalism has led to many decisions I oppose, I respect his devotion to the institution and the gentlemanly manner in which he always carried out his work.

"As we await the president's nominee to replace Justice Stevens ... Americans can expect Senate Republicans to make a sustained and vigorous case for judicial restraint and the fundamental importance of an even-handed reading of the law."

Senator Orrin Hatch, a Republican member of the Senate Judiciary Committee:

"Every president has an obligation to nominate judges who understand and are committed to their proper role in our system of government. As I have said for many years, someone who would be an activist judge, who would substitute their own views for what the law requires, is not qualified to serve on the federal bench."

Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts:

"Associate Justice John Paul Stevens has earned the gratitude and admiration of the American people for his nearly 40 years of distinguished service to the Judiciary, including more than 34 years on the Supreme Court. He has enriched the lives of everyone at the Court through his intellect, independence and warm grace."

Senator John Cornyn, Republican member of the Judiciary Committee:

"Our nation deserves a Supreme Court nominee who is committed to deciding cases impartially based on the law, not on personal politics, preferences, or what's in the nominee's 'heart.' It is my expectation that senators on both sides of the aisle will work to ensure both a dignified and respectful process for our next nominee."

Senator Charles Schumer of New York, a member of the Judiciary Committee:

"While Justice Stevens' retirement is not unexpected, the loss of such a great leader at a time of great change for America and the court is worrisome ...

"At a time when Americans are yearning for bipartisanship, we hope the president will choose a candidate who both merits consensus support and lives up to Justice Stevens' fine legacy. We hope both sides of the aisle in the Senate would quickly confirm such a nominee."

Nancy Keenan, president of the abortion rights group NARAL Pro-Choice America:

"Americans will be watching to make sure senators understand the need for a Justice who respects a woman's ability to make the personal, private decisions that are best for her and her family."

Democratic Senator John Kerry:

"Justice Stevens reveres the Court, which is why in announcing his retirement he gave President Obama and the Senate the time to nominate his successor and fill the vacancy before the coming October session. We should do so with civility and purpose."

(Compiled by Bill Trott; Editing by Eric Walsh)