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By Elizabeth Hartfield, CNN

updated 9:22 AM EDT, Fri September 26, 2014

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

(CNN) -- While Attorney General Eric Holder had made clear that he wanted to leave the post before the end of Obama's second term, the announcement of his departure just before midterm elections took many by surprise and the timing could complicate the effort to replace him.

Choosing a new attorney general and getting approval in a Senate confirmation hearing will be difficult for the White House. While the list of strong candidates who could assume the role is long, congressional politics will make it difficult to get Senate approval for just about anyone.

Plus, while he has endured his share of controversies, Holder is also President Barack Obama's very close friend and confidant, someone for whom the President consistently communicated his full support.

"We have been great colleagues, but the bonds between us are much deeper than that," Holder said Thursday in a joint statement with Obama, announcing his departure. "I'm proud to call you my friend."

Eric Holder resigns

Eric Holder resigns

Eric Holder resigns

More here:
Many hurdles to replacing Holder