Tom Harkin: “I am proud to support the confirmation of Solicitor General Elena Kagan as the next Associate Justice of the United…”

“I am proud to support the confirmation of Solicitor General Elena Kagan as the next Associate Justice of the United States. Solicitor General Kagan is eminently qualified to serve on our Nation's highest Court. As a student, she excelled at Princeton, Oxford and Harvard Law School. She has stellar legal credentials that have been recognized by liberal and conservative lawyers alike. And, throughout her career, including as a professor of law, as a key advisor to President Clinton, as dean of Harvard Law School, and as Solicitor General, she has demonstrated a great mind and intellect. Moreover, Solicitor General Kagan will bring important diversity to the Court. First, when the Senate confirms her, she will be only the fourth woman to serve on the Court; and for the first time in history, three women will serve on the Supreme Court together. Second, Solicitor General Kagan's experiences as someone who has worked in the legislative and executive branches will provide a vital perspective that is currently lacking among the Justices.”