Arlen Specter: “I do not think I am going to change a whole lot of votes in what I say, but I do think it is important for the Senate to…”

“I do not think I am going to change a whole lot of votes in what I say, but I do think it is important for the Senate to understand that voting against Judge Helene White is not a matter that is done lightly or without cause. There ought to be a statement as to why. Well, back to the case of People v. Ryan. Quite frequently there is a Federal investigation and a State prosecution. It happens all the time. It was very commonplace when I was district attorney of Philadelphia. That scenario is certainly not the basis for saying it is vindictive or out of order. For one reason or another, it is better suited to pursue the State court. If a State law is violated, you can do it that way. Judge White was wrong, as determined by the appellate court.”