The Nomination of Harriet Miers to be an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court

The Nomination of Harriet Miers to be an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court
October 3, 2005

Today, President Bush announced his choice to replace Sandra Day O'Connor as a Supreme Court Justice. In significant cases, Justice O'Connor often cast the deciding vote. Selection and confirmation of her successor, for this lifetime appointment, must involve careful and thorough scrutiny of her record.

Few people know anything about Harriet Miers, other than the fact that she is a close friend and trusted advisor to the President. These alone, however, are not sufficient qualifications for such an important appointment.

Because Harriet Miers has no experience as a judge, has never appeared before the Supreme Court as a lawyer, and has written little on her philosophy, Americans know less about her than any nominee in generations. I urge the United States Senate to conduct a thorough review and to hold extensive hearings to inform themselves and the nation about the judicial philosophy and temperament of this nominee.

http://tammybaldwin.house.gov/pr_display_page.asp?page=pressreleasedisplay&type=1&releaseid=441&pageno=1