CRAWFORD, Texas - US President George W. Bush is "saddened" by the US Supreme Court's refusal to order Terri Schiavo's feeding tube reconnected, White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said Thursday.
"The president is saddened by the latest ruling. When there is a complex case such as this, where serious questions and doubts have been raised, the president believes we ought to err on the side of life," she said.
Bush was spending the week at his ranch near this tiny town, and learned of the court ruling from a senior aide, she said.
Asked whether Bush was contemplating further legal action to help the severely brain-damaged woman, who tragic case has drawn international attention, Perino demured.
"We know there are still efforts underway by the parents and the state of florida to save her life, we cont to stand with those who are on the side of defending life," she said.
Schiavo, 41, has been artificially fed since heart failure left her with severe brain damage in 1990. Her husband and legal guardian Michael Schiavo has fought to let her die, in accordance to what he maintains was her wish.
Her parents have battled him in court, arguing that their daughter's condition could improve.
03/24/2005 18:41 GMT