Nixon strongly considered nominating Friday and California Court of Appeals judge Mildred Lillie to the open seats.
These were the first instances in which negative recommendations were issued by the ABA since it began participating in the Supreme Court nomination and confirmation process.
[6] Friday was informed of the change in plan only hours before the Powell and Rehnquist nominations were announced live on national television; reporters and friends were waiting for news at his house with him.
[7] He became recognized as one of the most influential lobbyists in the area, and he wielded his influence on behalf of the horse-racing interest Oaklawn Park.
[8] Friday died on March 1, 1994, when he failed to maintain control of his aircraft, while maneuvering to land at Bobwhite Hill Ranch, Arkansas.