Orrin Hatch: “I support the nominations of Ms. Berzon and Judge Paez, and spoke yesterday urging my colleagues to do the same. I would…”

“I support the nominations of Ms. Berzon and Judge Paez, and spoke yesterday urging my colleagues to do the same. I would hope my remarks prove persuasive. But if they do not, my colleagues of course are free to reasonably disagree with my view and to cast a vote against these candidates. It is quite another story, however, for members of this body to frustrate a majority vote on these nominees by forcing a super-majority cloture vote. I have reached this conclusion after having been part of this process for over 20 years now, and having served as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee for more than half a decade. There are times when legislators must, to be effective, demonstrate their mastery of politics. But there are also times when politics-- though available--must be foresworn. I am reminded of the great quote of Disraeli, which I will now paraphrase--``next to knowing when to seize an opportunity, the most important thing is knowing when to forego an advantage.'' I hope my colleagues will forego the perceived advantage of a filibuster. Simply put, there are certain areas that must be designated as off-limits from political activity. Statesmanship demands as much. The Senate's solemn role in confirming lifetime-appointed Article III judges--and the underlying principle that the Senate performs that role through the majority vote of its members--are such issues.”