Jim Inhofe: “first, let me thank the junior Senator from Oklahoma for the time he spent on the floor and the time he spent defending…”

“first, let me thank the junior Senator from Oklahoma for the time he spent on the floor and the time he spent defending this man, not that he should ever need any type of defense against some of the accusations. I didn't realize that there is an article referred to where he stated: There are other ways to get minority students on college campuses besides handing out benefits based solely on skin color. I am proud of it. I am also proud of the fact that I have known Jerome Holmes for some 5 years. Frankly, prior to this nomination, I made recommendations to the President that he consider this man because he is so incredibly qualified. We all agree he is a man of great character and undeniably fit for the bench. He has connections with both Oklahoma City and throughout Oklahoma, as well as the District of Columbia, a family history that goes back. He was one of the prominent figures in the Oklahoma City bombing that took place 11 years ago. He was on the Oklahoma City bomb prosecution team, and I believe it was his distinguished service as assistant U.S. attorney that really began to set him apart in the legal field. When asked about Mr. Holmes, most lawyers in Oklahoma begin their compliments with his work as U.S. assistant attorney in some public corruption cases in our State. He is someone who is willing to get in there and criticize and open up things other people aren't, a great characteristic and I think very important.…”