Patrick Leahy: “this evening the Senate considers the nomination of Kenneth Karas to be a United States District Judge for the Southern…”

“this evening the Senate considers the nomination of Kenneth Karas to be a United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York. For the past 11 years, Mr. Karas has served as an assistant United States attorney for the Southern District of New York. He received a favorable rating from the American Bar Association and he has the support of both Senators from his home State. In sharp contrast to so many judicial nominees of this President, apparently selected for their political viewpoint, Mr. Karas appears to be a well-qualified, moderate nominee. He has advocated for civil rights and the rights of the indigent and has served the public as an assistant U.S. attorney for 11 years. Mr. Karas's testimony and answers to my questions have made me confident that he will treat all who appear before him with respect. The nomination of Mr. Karas is an example of how effectively Democrats and Republicans can work together when we have qualified, moderate nominees.”