Edward Kennedy Judge Quotations

Unfortunately, Mr. Chairman, there are real and serious reasons to be deeply concerned about Judge Roberts' record. Many of his past statements and writings raise questions about his commitment to equal opportunity and the bipartisan remedies we have adopted in the past.

Based on the record available, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that Judge Roberts's view of the rule of law would include as paramount the protection of basic rights,

Judge Pickering's record reflects a hostility to civil rights and a vision of the Republican Party that reminds Americans of a painful time in our nation's history, ... Those who lack a strong commitment to our nation's fundamental ideals and principles do not belong in our federal judiciary.

You do agree, don't you, Judge Roberts, that the right to vote is a fundamental constitutional right?

there are real and serious reasons to be deeply concerned about Judge Roberts' record.

Americans will have the opportunity for the first time to hear Judge Roberts' views on the major issues.

I hope I am proven wrong about John Roberts. I have been proven wrong before on my confirmation votes. I regret my vote to confirm Justice Scalia, even though he, too, like Judge Roberts was a nice person and a very smart Harvard lawyer.

The chief justice is the most important judge in the country, with even more responsibility for the protection of the rights and freedoms of all Americans. Thus John Roberts bears a heavier burden when he comes before the Senate.