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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

McConnell’s “Point of Order” Really a Nuclear Option to Disregard Minority Votes

April 3, 2019, Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is deeply disappointed that the US Senate, under the leadership of Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), has chosen to disregard, again, its duty to advise and consent on judicial nominations in favor of putting through partisan and too often unqualified nominees quickly and without regard for debate. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:

“McConnell claims that this rule is in response to Democrats slowing down the confirmation process. In reality, this is a solution in search of a problem. In President Trump’s first two years in office, the Senate has confirmed 85 lifetime appointments to the bench, compared with 62 in President Obama’s first two years.

“This rule, which slashes the debate period on the Senate floor from 30 hours to just two, threatens the integrity of our courts even further than the Senate already has by ignoring blue slips, failing to consult with home-state Senators, disregarding evaluations of the American Bar Association, holding hearings for multiple nominees at one time and during recess, and moving forward on judges without complete records.

“It is telling that Senate Republicans are doing this just as a slew of unqualified and biased district court nominees is set to hit the floor. The time for debate is one of the final checks left to protect the judicial nominations process and to ensure qualified and independent judges decide our most critical issues. We implore all senators to prioritize the integrity of our federal judiciary and speak out against this sham process.”

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.