Trent Lott: “I understand, of course, that is a possibility. We have not been notified of any recess appointments or any Federal…”

“I understand, of course, that is a possibility. We have not been notified of any recess appointments or any Federal judicial appointment during this recess period. However, I note it has been done in the past, and there has been some suggestion it could occur during the next 6 weeks before the next Inauguration. I want to check on exactly what would be the situation. I understand even a Federal judge's term would expire, depending on when it happened, at the end of the Congress, but there would be tremendous pressure then to reappoint that person. I agree with the Senator that any appointment of a Federal judge during a recess should be opposed, regardless of who they are or whether it is Republican or Democrat. I commit myself now to remember that when there is a Republican administration, as well as a Democratic administration. I do know there were Federal judges back in the early 1950s appointed by President Eisenhower. That was a mistake then, and it would be one now. I understand that could be contemplated. This word of caution on your behalf and on mine on behalf of the Senate, hopefully, will cause that not to happen.”