Contact: Mark Coyle or Mike Russell at 703-683-5004 (ex. 130-Coyle, ex. 109-Russell)
April 28, 2005
Washington -- The following statement from Wendy E. Long, Counsel to the Judicial Confirmation Network, concerns today's offer from Senate Majority Leader Frist to schedule extended debate and a vote on all judicial nominees for the Circuit Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court. (http://judicialnetwork.com)
"Today Senate Majority Leader Frist offered a rational compromise that is more than fair to both Republicans and Democrats. This proposed process would ensure Democrats get ample opportunity for their voices to be heard and, after 100 hours of debate on each appellate nominee, the Senate will vote for or against each judge. It also preserves untouched the tradition of the legislative filibuster.
"By agreeing to schedule extended debate on every appellate judicial nominee, Majority Leader Frist has ensured that all views will be heard, pro and con, on every judge. Every name submitted by the President will be thoroughly debated by the Senate and examined by the American people.
"The Majority Leader's proposal provides a fair and consistent process not only for President Bush's nominees, but for all appellate court and Supreme Court nominees in the future -- regardless of what party is in the White House and what party is in the majority in the Senate. Those who oppose the Majority Leader's compromise choose to continue the needless politicization of the judicial confirmation process and only add to the partisan bickering and government gridlock that frustrates so many millions of Americans."
To schedule an interview with a spokesperson from the Judicial Confirmation Network, please call Mark Coyle or Mike Russell 703-683-5004 (ex. 130 for Mark Coyle, ex. 109 for Mike Russell)
|
