Orrin Hatch: “I don't know if Mr. Estrada is a conservative Republican, but I do know he is qualified for the position to which he is…”

“I don't know if Mr. Estrada is a conservative Republican, but I do know he is qualified for the position to which he is nominated, and it is well past time to vote on his nomination. This Friday will mark the two-years anniversary of his nomination on May 9, 2001. The Majority leader has made every attempt to obtain time agreements or use other procedures to bring this matter to a resolution. Each of these attempts has been rebuffed by a minority of this body. Some Senate Democrats have used every delay and obstructionist tactic available. Yet they still cannot identify one substantive issue that would justify or excuse their refusal to permit a final vote. Mr. President, on this day, 141 years ago, the Mexican Army defeated forces which represented tyranny and defended the liberty of their nation. I urge my colleagues, on this day of celebration, to defeat the tyranny of the minority by voting to bring the debate on the nomination of Miguel Estrada to a close.”