Tom Udall: “the Supreme Court nomination before us is of historic importance. We have a nominee whose nomination is clouded with…”

“the Supreme Court nomination before us is of historic importance. We have a nominee whose nomination is clouded with credible allegations of sexual assault, whose truthfulness before Congress is questionable, and who showed himself as partisan and lacking in judicial temperament before this body in his supplemental hearing. As of today, more than 2,400 law professors throughout the country are on record that Judge Kavanaugh's display of lack of judicial restraint during that hearing is disqualifying. The growing list includes professors from all political stripes and professors who had previously supported his nomination. Indeed, former Justice John Paul Stevens, a highly respected jurist, has taken the unusual step of publicly opining the same. Yesterday, I spoke on the Senate floor about why Judge Kavanaugh should not be confirmed in light of the allegations swirling around him, his lack of candor with this body, and his demeanor during the supplemental hearing. But, Mr. President, on the merits as well, Judge Kavanaugh has not shown himself deserving of elevation to our highest Court. Let's start with his overly expansive view of Executive power--a view that could shield our current President from being held to account for potential crimes and misdeeds. Judge Kavanaugh has written and spoken extensively about the need to shield the President from criminal investigation while in office.…”