Robert Torricelli: “I have always believed that Presidents are entitled to a degree of deference in their cabinet nominees. And so, while…”

“I have always believed that Presidents are entitled to a degree of deference in their cabinet nominees. And so, while this made it difficult I have nonetheless informed the administration that I cannot support Senator John Ashcroft's nomination to be attorney general. Senator Ashcroft has been a dedicated public servant and I say that even though we have not found common ground on the issues. The range of issues we have disagreed on has been broad and they have centered on some of the most important laws of our land. No person should be forced to choose between their fundamental beliefs and values and enforcing our Nation's laws. For those who cherish civil rights laws, the freedom of choice and handgun control the stakes are simply too high to expect a cabinet secretary to choose between passionately held beliefs and enforcing not only the letter but the spirit of the law. I also have specific concerns about New Jersey. It is not enough just to be opposed to racial profiling. The scars this issue has left on my state are too deep and require the strongest possible commitment if we are ever to heal. Further, it will take a concerted effort to enforce a range of civil rights laws from hate crimes to tolerance. It requires the will of the Attorney General, the full force of that office. I said some very positive things about John Ashcroft at the time he was nominated. I continue to hope that it is possible to disagree and to disagree strongly without demonizing.”