Patrick Leahy: “The disappointing decisions from this year's Supreme Court term remind us that this President has been quite successful…”

“The disappointing decisions from this year's Supreme Court term remind us that this President has been quite successful in moving the Federal courts to the right. This President has not only appointed two members of the Supreme Court but has also already appointed almost one-third of the 871-member Federal judiciary. When the appointments of his father and other Republican Presidents are considered, more than two-thirds of all current Federal judges were appointed by Republican Presidents. Of course, the Judiciary Committee has been engaged in oversight efforts this year with regard to the U.S. attorney scandal and other examples of White House interference with Federal law enforcement. Despite the attitude of the current administration, our Constitution does not include the phrase 'unitary executive' or 'executive privilege.' What the U.S. Constitution does provide in the oath of office is that the President must swear to 'faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States' and 'preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.' His essential duties require him to 'take care that the Laws be faithfully executed.' I have great concern with regard to how this administration is fulfilling those essential duties.”