League Statement on Kavanaugh Confirmation

Washington, DC – The League of Women Voters’ President Chris Carson and CEO Virginia Kase issued the following joint statement after the Senate voted to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh as the next Supreme Court justice. 

“The decision today will have long-term impacts on the justice system as we know it. 

“Judge Kavanaugh’s hearing was a spectacle that we had not witnessed in modern day American history. For decades, Supreme Court nomination hearings have been conducted with great transparency, with respectful input from both sides of the aisle, and with support beyond a simple majority. That was not the case this time.

“Judge Kavanaugh was confirmed by a margin of one, whereas historically Supreme Court nominees have been confirmed by much larger majorities.  Two years ago, the Senate refused to even consider a presidential nominee for the Supreme Court, which is without precedent.  The rancor of these recent departures from established processes has damaged the reputation of the Supreme Court. We must ask: do we need to reform the process? Is it time to change the way the Senate confirms Supreme Court justices? Should the Senate restore the 60-vote threshold for nominees? These are tough questions that the American people will need to grapple with if we’re serious about making democracy work.

“For those who feel as though their interests are not being represented by the politicians in Washington today, know that you have the power to change the system. You have the power in your votes. The League’s bedrock remains nonpartisanship and we encourage all voters to use their voice to elect those that reflect your community and personal ideologies, your rights, and your voice.”

Contact: Sarah Courtney | 202-263-1332 | [email protected]