Asa Hutchinson: “I am writing to express our concern that attorney Lavenski Smith, who is from Arkansas, has not been given a…”

“I am writing to express our concern that attorney Lavenski Smith, who is from Arkansas, has not been given a confirmation hearing. President Bush nominated Mr. Smith approximately a year ago for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. However, he has not been given a hearing before the Judiciary Committee. While I understand there are some partisan issues involved-- That is the greatest understatement ever made-- I am asking you, as chairman of the Judiciary Committee, to immediately schedule a hearing on behalf of the confirmation of Mr. Smith for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. It is my opinion that Mr. Smith is a fine individual and has served the people of Arkansas well in his capacity as a public official. Sincerely, Dale Charles, NAACP. What kind of support does one have to have to get a hearing? How long does one have to wait to get a hearing? In June of 2001, the American Bar Association, which has been called the gold standard of qualifications, agreed and made a unanimous qualified determination.”