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He didn't give ANY hint of what they plan on doing. :( This is in response to my email telling him to FILIBUSTER SCALITO.
January 11, 2006
Dear ******:
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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