Orrin Hatch: “I must say I find some irony in the criticisms I am hearing today regarding Mr. Klein's efforts to implement the…”

“I must say I find some irony in the criticisms I am hearing today regarding Mr. Klein's efforts to implement the Telecommunications Act. In essence, it is being suggested that Mr. Klein's interpretation of the Act would permit local Bell companies to enter the long distance market prematurely, or too easily. In fact, however, Mr. Klein has weighed in against Bell entry into long distance in the 2 applications that have, to date, come before him--that is, the SBC and Ameritech applications. So it is curious to me that, while Mr. Klein's only actions in this regard have been contrary to the Bells, his confirmation is being opposed on the ground that he is being too lax on the Bells. This puzzles me. But the broader point here is that Mr. Klein has demonstrated a studied, fair approach to interpreting the law, as a general matter. I may well disagree with particular decisions Mr. Klein makes, but I am persuaded he will make a top-flight antitrust chief. So I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this nomination.”