Jeff Bingaman: “let me first just commend all my colleagues for their eloquent statements in support of Solicitor General Elena Kagan's…”

“let me first just commend all my colleagues for their eloquent statements in support of Solicitor General Elena Kagan's nomination, and I join them in that support of her nomination to be an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. I strongly believe Solicitor General Kagan has the skill set, the intellect, and the experience necessary to be an exceptional Justice. She has a diverse legal background, with a distinguished career in government and academia, and she has served as our Nation's top lawyer before the Court. After reviewing her record, as Senator Klobuchar pointed out, I believe Senator Hagan also--and others have pointed out in their comments as well--the American Bar Association unanimously voted that she was ``well qualified'' to serve on the Court, which is the highest ranking the American Bar Association bestows. I have also met with Ms. Kagan and closely followed her confirmation hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee. She clearly demonstrated that she has the right temperament for this position and that her legal views are well within the mainstream of judicial thought in this country. Ms. Kagan also affirmed her commitment to interpret the law with fidelity and demonstrated that she understands how the decisions of this High Court have a very real impact on the lives and liberties of Americans. Ms. Kagan's wide range of experience will serve the country well.…”