“Amidst the probes, predictions and political handicapping, let’s not lose site of the fact that today is a historic day when the United States Senate will, for the first time ever, consider a Latina to serve on our highest court. 

In selecting Judge Sonia Sotomayor, President Obama opened a door that had been closed for too long.  There is every indication that she is a well-qualified nominee with a keen legal mind who can make a fine addition to the Court.  We look forward to the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing this week, which will give Judge Sotomayor the chance to affirm her commitment to equal justice under the law and every person’s fundamental right to privacy and to live free from discrimination.

In addition to the hearing, we look forward to a speedy vote that will ensure that the Supreme Court is at full strength when it hears cases in September.”