|
Leahy rejects White House criticism of AG confirmation process |
|
By Klaus Marre
|
|
Posted: 10/27/07 04:58 PM [ET] |
|
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) on Saturday rejected White House criticism that his panel was moving along too slowly the nomination of Michael Mukasey, whom President Bush tapped as the next attorney general. “The Senate is evaluating this nomination fairly, thoroughly and responsibly in keeping with the way other major nominations are handled,” Leahy stated. “Judge Mukasey’s written responses to questions from Republicans and Democrats, responses which the Committee has not yet received, are critical in the consideration of his nomination.” Leahy added that White House criticism regarding the speed of the confirmation process is unwarranted. Committee staff noted that two-day confirmation hearings are not unusual for major nominations and that the process in Mukasey’s case has, at times, even been expedited. “Over the last six years, the White House has become accustomed to thinking that they run the Senate, but those days are over,” Leahy said. “This is a key position in a Justice Department that has become increasingly politicized, and it comes at a crucial juncture for the Department. In order to be able to make an informed judgment, the Senate will take the time that requires on this nomination – no more, and no less.” |
