James M. Jeffords: “last Thursday I submitted a statement expressing my concerns with the nomination of Judge Samuel Alito to the United…”

“last Thursday I submitted a statement expressing my concerns with the nomination of Judge Samuel Alito to the United States Supreme Court. I am here today to reiterate these concerns as we move toward a final vote on this nomination. There is no higher legal body in the United States than the Supreme Court. It is the final authority on the meaning of laws and the Constitution. A Supreme Court Justice could serve for the life of the nominee, so the consequences of confirming a Supreme Court Justice can span decades. The confirmation of a Supreme Court Justice is one of the most important votes a Senator will take. With that in mind, after careful consideration, I have concluded I cannot support Judge Alito's nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. My first step in evaluating a nominee is to consider whether he or she is appropriately qualified and capable of handling the responsibilities of a Justice. Looking over Judge Alito's qualifications, it is clear this minimum standard has been met. However, there are additional factors in considering a judicial nominee. One such factor is the judicial philosophy of the nominee. Many of my colleagues argue this should have no part in the Senate's deliberations. However, if judicial philosophy helps determine who the President chooses, the Senate should also be allowed to consider this factor when deciding whether to approve or disapprove the nominee.…”