(AP) - Judge John Downey, Governor Rell'snominee for the Appellate Court, has withdrawn from consideration.

The Superior Court judge came under scrutiny after courttranscripts showed he mistakenly believed only legal residents mayuse the court system.

State lawmakers adjourned a confirmation hearing for Downeyyesterday after receiving the transcripts. They planned to resumethe hearing at a later date, but it was unclear whether he wouldhave had enough support to be confirmed.

In a letter to legislators today, Downey apologized for anymisunderstanding about his comments. He says he believes everyoneshould have access to the courts.

Rell says in a statement that Downey's decision was difficultfor him and his family. She says she will soon send to thelegislature's Judiciary Committee another nominee for the AppellateCourt.