Orrin Hatch: “let me personally express gratitude and thanks to Senator Santorum of Pennsylvania, Senator Norman Coleman of Minnesota…”

“let me personally express gratitude and thanks to Senator Santorum of Pennsylvania, Senator Norman Coleman of Minnesota, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, and Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama, all of whom stayed here all night last night to make the points they have made. I personally appreciate it. Senator Graham asked me to take time to read the full quote of Senator Leahy that he was not given the benefit of. Senator Leahy said he was misquoted, so I will read the full quote: This is Senator Leahy in the Congressional Record of June 18, 1998, regarding delays in Senate action on judicial nominations: I have stated over and over again on this floor that I would refuse to put an anonymous hold on any judge; that I would object and fight against any filibuster on a judge, whether it is somebody I opposed or supported; that I felt the Senate should do its duty. If we don't like somebody the President nominates, vote him or her down. Now, that is the correct full statement by the distinguished ranking member of the committee. Senator Graham wanted me to make sure that the full statement was put in. What is involved here is whether or not we are going to abide by the Constitution because the Constitution is pretty clear on this subject of advice and consent. This little book right here contains the Constitution of the United States.…”