Orrin Hatch: “I believe this letter speaks volumes about Judge Shedd's fairness and dispels the completely unfounded criticism that…”

“I believe this letter speaks volumes about Judge Shedd's fairness and dispels the completely unfounded criticism that Judge Shedd's reversal rate or dismissal rate is somehow out of sync or cause for concern. I have been on the Senate Judiciary Committee for 26 years. Most of my colleagues will say I have acted with fairness, honesty, and candor during those 26 years. Most would say I have done so as chairman of the committee when I have been chairman. I know Dennis Shedd. I know him very well. I worked closely with him and Senator Thurmond, as did many on the committee. I saw in Dennis Shedd a very scrupulously honest and decent man. I never saw one iota of evidence that he was anything but an honest and decent, honorable human being, with the respect for all people, regardless of race, religion, or origin--or any other reason. I can say this man served the committee well. He was chief of staff for the committee when Senator Thurmond was chairman. He got along well with everyone. He did his job, and did it well. He has had experience in private practice. He has had experience in this legislative body that I don't think many staffers could match. He has had 12 years of experience on the Federal district court bench in South Carolina where the chief judge himself says he has distinguished himself. I have bitterly resented some of the outside attacks which have come to be the norm in the case of President Bush's nominees.”