“Justice Stevens’ retirement will be a real loss for the nation. Nominated by President Ford, Justice Stevens has been an independent, thoughtful, compassionate voice during his long tenure on the Supreme Court. Time after time, he voted to protect women, people of color, workers, seniors, immigrants and others who too often face discrimination. He has consistently voted to protect a woman’s right to privacy, including the right to choose. We thank him for his stalwart and remarkable service to the nation.

Selecting Supreme Court nominees is one of the most important responsibilities for presidents and does a tremendous amount to shape their legacies. We urge President Obama to replace Justice Stevens with another well-qualified justice whose record demonstrates a deep commitment to equal justice under the law, and to protecting our right to privacy.

At a time when just two of our nine justices are women, the nation would be well-served if President Obama nominated another woman to the Supreme Court. There are countless highly qualified female candidates who would be extraordinary justices.”