Patrick Leahy actually said...

I believe that your experience as a Federal public defender has made you a better judge, helped you maintain impartial and balanced perspect...

I believe that--in fact, I don't think of it as a liability. I think it's going to be a major asset to you, and I think it should be welcome...

You are writing a new page in the history of America, a good page.

Those of us who have spent time in courtrooms know you have to have both a skilled prosecutor and a skilled defender.