I want to thank Chairman Boxer for her work in keeping the focus on sound science as this debate continues.

Chairman Leahy apologizes for not personally being here today.

the premier agency for the people of this country in protecting the rule of law, representing the people of this Nation, and holding anyone who violates our laws accountable, even if it is the President of the United States.

I very much support your statement of aggressively enforcing the laws of our country regardless of your personal views.

If confirmed, I believe General Kagan will be an outstanding Solicitor General.

Without objection, they will be made part of the record.

I want to make sure the Solicitor General is going to be sensitive to the role that you can play in making sure that the appropriate protections are maintained within our Constitution.

I would also hope that there would be some transparency in making those judgments so that there is an opportunity for input and challenge if it is a fundamental issue.

Thank you, Senator Kaufman.

Dean Kagan will bring distinction to the office, continue its highest traditions, be a forceful advocate for the United States before the Supreme Court.

These are very important positions, and as Senator Whitehouse said, it is going to be long days.

I want to know what priority you intend to place on the Civil Rights Division within the Department of Justice.