The Center for Investigative Reporting has compiled a comprehensive database of disclosure forms and background information of Bush's nominees to federal appeals courts. The results reveal significant ties to big corporations, in particular the mining and energy industries: President George W. Bush’s nominees to some of the most influential positions on the federal bench during his first term are notable for their close ties to corporate interests, especially the energy and mining industries, according to a new investigation by the Center for Investigative Reporting. Many of the nominees have been appointed to judgeships holding central jurisdiction over litigation affecting these industries. * * * The investigation reveals that more than a third of President Bush’s nominees to these federal courts — 21 of 59 nominations since 2001 — have a history of working as lawyers and lobbyists on behalf of the oil, gas and energy industries. Eighteen of the 21 have been nominated to the Appellate Courts in the 4th, 5th, 9th, 10th and District of Columbia circuits where those same industries frequently battle over cases with huge financial interests at stake. These five circuit courts are at the forefront of establishing judicial precedent on matters involving conflicts over natural resources. The placement of the nominees suggests an administration strategy of nominating corporate friendly judges in circuits where they will make the greatest impact. In many cases, these same corporations and industries are also major campaign contributors to the Bush Administration and the Republican Party. The Court of Enron will now come to order.... Get the full scoop here.