Perlmutter Statement on Nomination of Judge Merrick Garland for Supreme Court Justice

Statement

"Today, President Obama fulfilled his constitutional responsibility by nominating Chief Judge Merrick Garland to be a Supreme Court Justice. With more federal judicial experience than any other Supreme Court nominee in history and widely recognized as one of the best appellate judges in the country, Judge Garland is undeniably one of the most qualified individuals to serve on our nation's highest court.

"Judge Garland was appointed to the D.C. Circuit with overwhelming bipartisan support (76-23) from the Senate in 1997 because of his ability to build consensus, his thoughtful and fair-minded approach to the law, and his dedication to public service.

"I strongly believe -- along with the majority of Americans - that it is now the duty of the Senate to give Judge Garland a fair hearing and timely confirmation vote. As President Obama mentioned in his announcement, the process for appointing a Supreme Court Justice should rise above politics. Our democracy demands that this process be handled with the seriousness and the care it deserves. It is time for the Senate to do its job and move forward with their constitutional responsibility to provide a fair hearing for Judge Garland."

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