7/1/2005
STATEMENT OF SENATOR TOM HARKIN (D-IA) ON THE RETIREMENT OF SUPREME COURT JUSTICE SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR

“Justice O’Connor was an open-minded and unbiased jurist, whose legacy as the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court will inspire generations to come. Throughout her career she has been an independent voice on the Court who examined issues with impartiality and thoughtfulness. I wish her well in her retirement.

“President Reagan chose a consensus nominee in selecting Justice O’Connor, and I hope that President Bush will follow his example in selecting her replacement.

“There is no more important decision than a lifetime appointment to our nation’s highest court. I hope that the nomination process will be one of consensus, and that the President will seek the advice of Senators from both parties in order to find a mainstream nominee who will impartially protect the rights and freedoms of all Americans.”