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January 17, 2006
Dear Ms. xxxxxxx:
Thank you for your letter expressing concern about Judge Samuel Alito's
nomination to the Supreme Court. I appreciate hearing your views.
The key role the Senate plays in our system of checks and balances has
never been more critical as we contemplate the profound influence Justice
Sandra Day O'Connor's successor will have on the lives, liberties, and
legal protections of Americans for decades to come. Throughout her
tenure, Justice O'Connor has often been the deciding vote in a sharply
divided Court. In the last ten years, there have been 193 5-4 decisions:
and Justice O'Connor was in the majority in 148 of them - more than 75
percent. She has cast the deciding vote on the Court in cases involving
many controversial issues. This is what makes the nomination of her
successor such a pivotal appointment.
As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I carefully review the
merits of the nominees presented to us. During this process, I evaluate
the nominee's past record, professional competence, integrity,
temperament, and judicial philosophy; his or her commitment to upholding
the rights and protections established by the Constitution, the Bill of
Rights, and subsequent laws; and the background information and testimony
collected in the course of the candidate's confirmation hearings.
As the Senate considers Judge Alito's nomination, it is essential that he
clearly and candidly discuss his views so that we and the American people
can understand his judicial philosophy. I understand how important it is
to ensure that the next member of the Supreme Court will protect our
freedoms, preserve our rights, pursue justice, and be fair, open-minded,
and independent. I hope the confirmation process will show clearly
whether Judge Alito is such a person.
Thank you for your letter. I appreciate hearing your concerns.
Sincerely,
Richard J. Durbin
United States Senator
RJD/my
P.S. If you are ever visiting Washington, please feel free to join Senator
Obama and me at our weekly constituent coffee. When the Senate is in
session, we provide coffee and donuts every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. as we
hear what is on the minds of Illinoisans and respond to your questions.
We would welcome your participation. Please call my D.C. office for more
details.
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