I believe in a woman's right to choose on the issue of choice, but I do believe that there has been quite a bit of scientific material on potential adverse effects after an abortion, although that's within the purview of the right to…

I'd ask you at this time if you agree with the conclusions by the Congressional Research Service that the Department of Justice is obliged to submit to congressional oversight, regardless of whether litigation is pending.

May we have your commitment that you will make that a high priority?

Are you willing to give an opinion as to whether warrantless wire tapping, which violates the mandate of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, is saved under Presidential authority by his powers as Commander in Chief under Article 2?

I would again renew my call--I see only two of my colleagues here on the Republican side--that my colleagues come because of the importance of this nomination.

I think criminal sanctions are a vital part and are essential for the requisite deterrence that is needed.

Can we have your assurances that, if you are confirmed, there will be a really tough line on examination of white-collar crimes and firm recommendation for jail sentences as a deterrent?

I would suggest that every effort be made to get the Supreme Court to decide this question.

I personally find it very distasteful to raise these considerations in the Judiciary Committee, but I do so because of the conclusive nature of the record which shows that there has been grossly insufficient time to prepare.

January 15, 2009 Opening statement

Independence is a very important item.

Eric Holder made some terrible mistakes... But he did not understand, he did not authorize, he certainly did not execute this pardon.

You say that the Rich pardon was a 'corrupt act.'

It seemed to me a pretty no-brainer with respect to conflict, also protecting the integrity of the investigation.

You turned down the White House request for a briefing on campaign finance reform.

Eric Holder is exactly the kind of attorney that we should trust as our Attorney General.

The Constitution calls for the United States Senate to advise and consent, and I agree with the Chairman about the necessity to help President-elect Obama tackle the problems of enormous difficulties which this Nation faces.

The critical question is the national security issue.

The pardon of Marc Rich was a corrupt act.

I think it was really unfortunate that you weren't consulted and at least given an opportunity to be heard about it.

I would not take as gospel everything that is contained in that House report, and we can certainly talk about the various things that I dispute.

The basic issue of national security is perhaps the Attorney General's most important responsibility: to protect the American people.

Would you make available to me the paper you referred to with respect to the request to Roger Adams on the Rich issue?

There is great disdain in the American public for disagreements or bickering in Washington, D.C.

Well, that doesn't sound like a passing familiarity to me, but we'll let that stand.