Harry Reid: “I rise to speak on the comments and statements made by Senator Hatch, chairman of the Judiciary Committee. First…”

“I rise to speak on the comments and statements made by Senator Hatch, chairman of the Judiciary Committee. First, Senator Hatch and I don't always agree on substantive issues. I think the country is well served with the leadership of the Judiciary Committee, the Senator from Utah, and the Senator from Vermont. These two men worked tireless hours to try to clear one of the busiest committees we have. I personally wish there were more nominations cleared. I have the greatest respect for Senator Hatch, and, of course, my dear friend, the Senator from Vermont. However, this Ninth Circuit issue is something that should be approached cautiously. We have done that. I say to my friend from Utah and the Senator from Alaska, who introduced legislation, as I said earlier today, we need to take a look at what the White commission said should be done with the Ninth Circuit. They spent a year's period of time listening to witnesses and using their experience and his experience as a member of the U.S. Supreme Court as to what should happen to the Ninth Circuit. They came up with the decision after they reviewed all the alternatives, and the decision was not to split the Ninth Circuit but to change the way it was administered. I think that is something at which we need to take a close look.”