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U.S. senators on Neil Gorsuch's nomination

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See also: Supreme Court vacancy, 2017: An overview


On January 31, 2017, President Donald Trump nominated Neil Gorsuch to succeed Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court. This was Trump's first nomination to a federal judicial position. This page tracks comments made by U.S. senators about the Gorsuch nomination during Gorsuch's confirmation process.

HIGHLIGHTS
  • President Donald Trump (R) nominated Judge Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court on January 31, 2017.
  • On January 3, 2017, the first day of the 115th Congress, Republicans held a 52-48 majority in the U.S. Senate.
  • Confirmation hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee were held on March 20-23, 2017.
  • On April 3, 2017, voting 11-9 on party lines, the Senate Judiciary Committee reported Gorsuch's nomination to the full U.S. Senate.
  • Gorsuch was confirmed on a recorded 54-45 vote of the U.S. Senate on Friday, April 7, 2017. He received his commission as an associate justice on Monday, April 10, 2017.

    • Background

    On January 31, 2017, President Donald Trump nominated Neil Gorsuch to succeed Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court. Scalia was a member of the U.S. Supreme Court for three decades.[1] President Trump said regarding the nomination,[2]

    “

    I am proud to announce the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch for Justice of the Supreme Court ... This has been the most transparent and most important Supreme Court selection process in the history of our country and I wanted the American people to have a voice in this nomination. Judge Gorsuch has a superb intellect, an unparalleled legal education, and a commitment to interpreting the Constitution according to its text. He will make an incredible Justice as soon as the Senate confirms him. [3]

    		”

    Confirmation hearings on Gorsuch's nomination before the Senate Judiciary Committee were held from March 20-23, 2017. On April 3, 2017, voting 11-9 on party lines, the Senate Judiciary Committee reported Neil Gorsuch's nomination to the full U.S. Senate. That same day, Senate Democrats announced that they had a sufficient number of votes to sustain a filibuster against the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court. In anticipation of an expected filibuster, Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) indicated that he was prepared to restrict the use of filibusters on Supreme Court nominations, referred to as the nuclear option. The Senate voted on April 6, 2017, to end the use of filibusters on all presidential nominations and proceeded to vote to end debate on the Gorsuch nomination. Gorsuch was confirmed on a recorded 54-45 vote of the Senate on Friday, April 7, 2017, and he received his commission on Monday, April 10, 2017.[4]

    Click on the tabs below to review comments made by various senators. For videos, please follow the links on the senators by state tab.

    Senate Leadership

    Senate leadership

    Vice President Mike Pence (R); President of the Senate

    Vice President Pence was interviewed by PBS' Judy Woodruff on the nomination.[5]

    The Vice President's office released a series of tweets on January 31, 2017:[6][7][8]

    “

    Tonight, @POTUS nominated a Supreme Court Justice who will uphold the God-given liberties enshrined in our constitution — Judge Gorsuch ... Judge Gorsuch is one of the most mainstream, respected, and exceptionally qualified Supreme Court nominees in American history ... Supreme Court nominee Judge Gorsuch firmly stands as a strict constructionist, fitting the mold of the late Justice Antonin Scalia. [3]

    		”

    Orrin Hatch (R); President pro tempore of the Senate

    Senator Hatch contributed an editorial in The Salt Lake Tribune on January 31, 2017. In the editorial, Senator Hatch stated,[9]

    “

    On Tuesday, President Donald Trump nominated Colorado federal judge Neil Gorsuch to fill the late Justice Antonin Scalia's seat on the Supreme Court. The president has made an inspired choice. Utahns should take heart that the man who will replace Scalia will be just as committed to the Constitution as his predecessor.

    Time and again, Gorsuch has shown that he understands the proper role of a judge under our Constitution and believes that lawmaking authority resides with the people and their elected representatives, not unelected judges ...

    [Justice] Scalia understood the proper role of the judge in our constitutional system, and Gorsuch does, too. In a speech given not long after Scalia's passing, Gorsuch said that "judges should be in the business of declaring what the law is using the traditional tools of interpretation, rather than pronouncing the law as they might wish it to be in light of their own political views."

    Like Scalia's opinions, Gorsuch's opinions evidence a focus on text and original intent. In one case, he observed that the Constitution "isn't some inkblot on which litigants may project their hopes and dreams," but rather "a carefully drafted text judges are charged with applying according to its original public meaning." On issues ranging from religious liberty to federal overreach, Gorsuch has shown a steady devotion to the Constitution and to the principle that judges are to interpret, not rewrite, the law. [3]

    		”

    Republican leadership

    Mitch McConnell (R); Senate Majority Leader

    Senator McConnell wrote an editorial in Politico urging his Senate colleagues to give Judge Neil Gorsuch an up-or-down vote on his nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.[10]

    John Cornyn (R), Assistant Republican Leader

    Senator Cornyn released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[11]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch is an excellent choice to serve as our next Supreme Court Justice. A jurist of the highest caliber, he has served with distinction and a demonstrated commitment to the rule of law.

    The American people made clear last November that they wanted a judge who would interpret the law, not legislate from the bench. I’m confident that Judge Gorsuch will follow Justice Scalia’s example, adhering to the Constitution and fairly applying the law on behalf of all Americans.

    The President has picked a mainstream nominee unanimously supported by Democrats in the past. I hope my colleagues across the aisle will allow an up-or-down vote on this bipartisan, highly qualified nominee. [3]

    		”

    John Thune (R), GOP Conference Chair

    Senator Thune released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[12]

    “

    President Trump has made an outstanding choice ... Neil Gorsuch is an exceptionally well-qualified, mainstream jurist, and I believe his long record of thoughtful jurisprudence will make him an asset to the court. I look forward to confirming Judge Gorsuch to serve on the Supreme Court.

    Unfortunately, Senate Democrats decided to judge this nominee before they even knew who it was. Considering that Senate Democrats have repeatedly emphasized the need for nine justices, they should abandon their campaign to filibuster Judge Gorsuch and work with Senate Republicans to fill this vacancy. [3]

    		”

    Roy Blunt (R), GOP Conference Vice Chair

    Senator Blunt released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[13]

    “

    Judge Neil Gorsuch is a well-respected jurist with the experience and qualifications to serve on our nation’s highest court. In his decade on the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals bench, he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and interpreting the Constitution as its authors intended. The Supreme Court is one of the most important legacies this president is likely to leave, and he made the right choice in selecting Judge Gorsuch to begin shaping the long-term view of the court. I look forward to hearing more from Judge Gorsuch as the confirmation process moves forward. [3]

    		”

    John Barrasso (R), GOP Policy Committee Chair

    Senator Barrasso issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[14]

    “

    Our next Supreme Court justice will make decisions that impact our country for generations. That’s why it’s important to confirm someone who will apply the law, not legislate from the bench.

    Judge Gorsuch is a mainstream nominee with an extensive and impressive judicial career. He has a record of fiercely defending religious freedoms. His experience with issues affecting the Rocky Mountain West will make him unique among his fellow justices. I look forward to a thorough confirmation process. [3]

    		”

    Cory Gardner (R), Republican Senatorial Committee Chair

    Senator Gardner released the following statement on February 1, 2017, after meeting with Judge Gorsuch in Gardner's Senate office:[15]

    “

    I was honored to meet with fellow Coloradan, Judge Neil Gorsuch, today ... He is an exceptional jurist who will bring an additional Western perspective to the Supreme Court, and I’m confident his opinions will have a positive impact on this country for generations to come. I urge my colleagues to expeditiously confirm this mainstream jurist who has proven that he understands the importance of putting personal beliefs aside and interpreting the law as written. [3]

    		”

    Gardner released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[16]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch is one of our country’s brightest legal minds with significant experience as a federal judge and a private litigator. A former Supreme Court clerk for Justices Byron White and Anthony Kennedy, Judge Gorsuch has learned from some of the most exceptional, disciplined, and faithful interpreters of the law. He is an ardent defender of the Constitution and he has the appropriate temperament to serve on the nation’s highest court. Judge Gorsuch also adds to the court's Western perspective, with his understanding of uniquely Western issues like water and public lands issues. I’m enthusiastic about the native Coloradan’s nomination and will work to ensure that his confirmation process is fair, thorough, and expedient. [3]

    		”

    Democratic leadership

    Charles Schumer (D), Senate Democratic Leader

    Senator Schumer wrote an editorial in Politico in which he argued that a confirmation vote on Judge Neil Gorsuch should require 60 votes.[17]


    Dick Durbin (D), Senate Democratic Whip

    Senator Durbin issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[18]

    “

    Only 12 days into this administration, we’ve already seen unlawful executive orders blocked by a federal court, and the unprecedented dismissal of an Attorney General for disagreeing with the president. I believe the independence of our judicial system, and especially the Supreme Court, is more critical now than at any time in recent history. That is the context in which I will review this nomination.

    I will meet with Judge Gorsuch and support a hearing and a vote for him — both of which were denied to an eminently qualified nominee presented by President Obama.

    The American people need to know what they can expect from this nominee, and that he will protect our fundamental constitutional rights on issues like voting rights, immigration, privacy, and women’s health. In recent years, the court’s decisions have shifted dramatically toward big money corporate interests at the expense of American workers and small businesses — we need a Court that is on the side of Main Street, not Wall Street.

    This Supreme Court seat does not belong to President Trump or to any political party. It belongs to the American people, and I will work to make sure their voices are heard in this debate. [3]

    		”


    Patty Murray (D), Assistant Democratic Leader

    Senator Murray issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[19]

    “

    In his first days in office, President Trump has demonstrated a clear disregard for the law, for the Constitution, and for American values. From his abhorrent and un-American ban on Muslim refugees and immigrants, to his firing of an acting Attorney General who stood up and told him the truth—he has made it clear that he doesn’t just think he is above the law, he has at times shown true disdain for it.

    With so much chaos in the Administration and so many questions surrounding this President’s commitment to the rule of law and the separation of powers—I have serious concerns about moving forward with a Supreme Court nomination at this time and will be joining with those pushing back against jamming this nominee through or rushing a confirmation in any way.

    I am hoping that President Trump pulls back from this chaos and makes it clear that he is truly committed to the rule of law and an independent justice system and judiciary. When and if the time is right, I will evaluate this nominee using the standards I have long used when it comes to Supreme Court nominees—and I would certainly start my process with deep concerns about whether this nominee would be someone who would protect our Constitutional rights and liberties and would respect critical precedents on issues like privacy, workers’ rights, protecting women’s access to health care and upholding Roe v. Wade, and more [3]

    		”

    Debbie Stabenow (D), Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Chair

    Senator Stabenow was interviewed MSNBC's Chris Hayes on January 31, 2017:[20]


    Joe Manchin (D), Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Vice Chair

    Senator Manchin issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[21]

    “

    Senators have a constitutional obligation to advise and consent on a nominee to fill this Supreme Court vacancy and, simply put, we have a responsibility to do our jobs as elected officials. Just as I did when Merrick Garland was nominated, I look forward to evaluating Judge Neil Gorsuch’s qualifications to be a justice on the Supreme Court. I still believe we must evaluate Judge Gorsuch’s record, legal qualifications and judicial philosophy. The Senate should hold committee hearings; Senators should meet with him, we should debate his qualifications on the Senate floor and cast whatever vote we believe he deserves. I look forward to meeting with Judge Gorsuch, examining his record, and making a determination of whether to provide my consent. Just as I have all along, I urge my colleagues to put partisan politics aside and allow the vetting process to proceed. [3]

    		”

    Elizabeth Warren (D), Democratic Conference Vice Chair

    Senator Warren released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[22]

    “

    President Trump had the chance to select a consensus nominee to the Supreme Court. To the surprise of absolutely nobody, he failed that test.

    Instead, he carried out his public promise to select a nominee from a list drawn up by far right activist groups that were financed by big business interests.

    Judge Neil Gorsuch has been on this list for four months. His public record, which I have reviewed in detail, paints a clear picture.

    Before even joining the bench, he advocated to make it easier for public companies to defraud investors. As a judge, he has twisted himself into a pretzel to make sure the rules favor giant companies over workers and individual Americans. He has sided with employers who deny wages, improperly fire workers, or retaliate against whistleblowers for misconduct. He has ruled against workers in all manner of discrimination cases. And he has demonstrated hostility toward women’s access to basic health care.

    For years, powerful interests have executed a full-scale assault on the integrity of our federal judiciary, trying to turn the Supreme Court into one more rigged game that works only for the rich and the powerful. They spent millions to keep this seat open, and Judge Gorsuch is their reward.

    Every day, our new President finds more ways to demonstrate his hostility for our independent judiciary, our civil society, and the rule of law. Now more than ever, America needs Supreme Court justices with a proven record of standing up for the rights of all Americans – civil rights, women’s rights, LGBT rights, and all other protections guaranteed by our laws. We don’t need another justice who spends his time looking out for those with money and influence.

    Based on the long and well-established record of Judge Gorsuch, I will oppose his nomination. [3]

    		”

    Mark Warner (D), Democratic Conference Vice Chair

    Senator Warner issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[23]

    “

    The American people deserve a Supreme Court comprised of justices who faithfully interpret and uphold the Constitution while serving as an independent and vigilant check on the other branches of government. Though I wish the President had taken the time to review a larger set of judicial candidates than the ones recommended by conservative advocacy organizations, Judge Neil Gorsuch has an impressive résumé and academic background. However, his record must be thoroughly vetted to ensure his views and judicial philosophy are not out of the mainstream. I look forward to carefully reviewing Judge Gorsuch’s qualifications before deciding whether I believe he is fit to serve on our nation’s highest court. [3]

    		”

    Tammy Baldwin (D), Secretary of the Democratic Conference

    Senator Baldwin issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[24]

    “

    President Trump took an oath eleven days ago to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, but since he was sworn into office he has pursued a go it alone approach of extremism. With this Supreme Court nomination, President Trump has made it clear he has no interest in being a President for all Americans and that he is intent on creating more division in our country. Instead of putting forward a mainstream nominee for the vacant Supreme Court seat, he has offered someone who will have a hard time earning bipartisan support.

    The importance of the Supreme Court and the decisions they make have a profound effect on the daily lives of all Americans so I will do my job to fully review Judge Gorsuch’s record. I also look forward to meeting with him because I have a number of concerns and questions about his deeply troubling record, particularly his rulings against disabled students, against workers, and against women’s reproductive health care.

    The American people deserve an independent Supreme Court Justice who will protect the constitutional rights and freedoms of all Americans, not someone who will put his own political preferences above the law and legislate President Trump’s far right agenda from the bench of our nation’s highest court. That is the test I will apply as I give fair consideration to this nomination. [3]

    		”

    Amy Klobuchar (D), Democratic Steering Committee Chair

    Senator Klobuchar released the following statement on February 1, 2017:[25]

    “

    Senators have a solemn obligation to advise and consent on a President’s nominee for the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court makes decisions that affect the lives of people across the country. We need to thoroughly examine Judge Gorsuch, his respect for precedent, and his views on issues that matter to the American people. I have concerns about his views and record on issues including those involving separation of powers, campaign finance, and consumer protection. This nominee deserves serious scrutiny. And to be clear, there is a 60 vote threshold for this nominee to be confirmed, it’s not 51 like the other nominees that are before us now. [3]

    		”

    Bernie Sanders (I), Chair of Outreach

    Senator Sanders released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[26]

    “

    The Supreme Court plays an enormously important role in American life. Unfortunately, in recent years, that role has been largely negative. I look forward to questioning Judge Gorsuch about his positions on the most important issues that impact Vermonters and all Americans and his views on recent Supreme Court decisions.

    In recent years, the disastrous Citizens United ruling opened the floodgates on campaign cash and let corporations and millionaires buy elections. The court tore up the Voting Rights Act and cleared the way for Republican governors and state legislatures to suppress the vote and make it harder for poor people, people of color, young people and senior citizens to vote. This is the court that in a long string of cases was far friendlier to big business than to the needs of workers. This is a court that let Exxon off the hook for $5 billion in fines for a disastrous oil spill in Alaska and stymied efforts to combat global warming. This is a court that has chipped away at a woman's right to control her own body.

    The stakes are very high in terms of the next Supreme Court justice. It is imperative that a new justice be prepared to defend the rights of all Americans, not just the wealthy and large corporations. Our next Supreme Court justice must vote to protect American democracy and keep campaigns free of the corrupting influence of big money, treat workers fairly, safeguard liberties for women and minorities, protect religious freedom and safeguard the privacy rights of citizens.

    I look forward to hearing Judge Gorsuch’s views on these and other critically important issues. [3]

    		”

    Chris Van Hollen (D), Democratic Senatorial Committee Chair

    Prior to the announcement of Neil Gorsuch as President Donald Trump's nominee, Senator Van Hollen made the following comments, "The American public deserves a thorough vetting. People need to make sure that we have a Supreme Court justice who is in the mainstream and ultimately that's why we have a 60-vote requirement to make sure whoever it is can get that consensus ...I'm very worried that the person may not fit that pattern, but we need to wait and see."[27]


    Judiciary Cmte. members

    Republican members

    Chuck Grassley (R), Senate Judiciary Committee Chair

    Senator Grassley released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[28]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch is universally respected across the ideological spectrum as a mainstream judge who applies the law without regard to person or his own preferences. By all accounts, he has a record of deciding cases based on the text of the Constitution and the law. That’s important because in our system of government, Congress, not judges, make the laws. I look forward to continuing to review his qualifications and to hearing from Judge Gorsuch himself about his approach to the law.

    Following the death of Justice Scalia as Americans were beginning to cast their votes for the next President, I said that we’d move forward with the next President’s nomination to the Supreme Court, regardless of who won. The President has made his selection and that’s what we’ll do. [3]

    		”

    Orrin Hatch (R)

    Senator Hatch contributed an editorial in The Salt Lake Tribune on January 31, 2017. In the editorial, Senator Hatch stated,[29]

    “

    On Tuesday, President Donald Trump nominated Colorado federal judge Neil Gorsuch to fill the late Justice Antonin Scalia's seat on the Supreme Court. The president has made an inspired choice. Utahns should take heart that the man who will replace Scalia will be just as committed to the Constitution as his predecessor.

    Time and again, Gorsuch has shown that he understands the proper role of a judge under our Constitution and believes that lawmaking authority resides with the people and their elected representatives, not unelected judges ...

    [Justice] Scalia understood the proper role of the judge in our constitutional system, and Gorsuch does, too. In a speech given not long after Scalia's passing, Gorsuch said that "judges should be in the business of declaring what the law is using the traditional tools of interpretation, rather than pronouncing the law as they might wish it to be in light of their own political views."

    Like Scalia's opinions, Gorsuch's opinions evidence a focus on text and original intent. In one case, he observed that the Constitution "isn't some inkblot on which litigants may project their hopes and dreams," but rather "a carefully drafted text judges are charged with applying according to its original public meaning." On issues ranging from religious liberty to federal overreach, Gorsuch has shown a steady devotion to the Constitution and to the principle that judges are to interpret, not rewrite, the law. [3]

    		”

    Lindsey Graham (R)

    Senator Graham issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[30]

    “

    This is a home run pick by President Trump.

    Judge Gorsuch is a well-qualified jurist with an impeccable resume. As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I look forward to hearings on the nominee and expect he will be given an up-or-down vote on the Senate floor. I look forward to his eventual confirmation to the Supreme Court.

    Finally, President Obama was elected by the American people and nominated Justices Sotomayor and Kagan to the Supreme Court. I voted for them – not because I agreed with them – but because both were qualified to serve on the Court. I urge my colleagues to extend Judge Gorsuch the same courtesy when considering his nomination. I ask no more of them than I asked of myself. [3]

    		”

    John Cornyn (R)

    Senator Cornyn released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[31]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch is an excellent choice to serve as our next Supreme Court Justice. A jurist of the highest caliber, he has served with distinction and a demonstrated commitment to the rule of law.

    The American people made clear last November that they wanted a judge who would interpret the law, not legislate from the bench. I’m confident that Judge Gorsuch will follow Justice Scalia’s example, adhering to the Constitution and fairly applying the law on behalf of all Americans.

    The President has picked a mainstream nominee unanimously supported by Democrats in the past. I hope my colleagues across the aisle will allow an up-or-down vote on this bipartisan, highly qualified nominee. [3]

    		”

    Mike Lee (R)

    Senator Lee issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[32]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch is a tremendous pick for the Supreme Court and I look forward to doing everything I can to make sure he is confirmed by the Senate ... I’ve had the privilege of arguing before Judge Gorsuch and he is extremely impressive. He is a prepared, thoughtful, and careful jurist, who has demonstrated a strong commitment to textualism and originalism. His opinions are well-reasoned and brilliantly written, and he has enriched the Tenth Circuit’s jurisprudence in a number of areas during his ten years on the court. He is a judge’s judge, who is well within the mainstream and always decides cases based on what the law says. He also always treats the parties appearing before him with dignity and respect.

    Throughout 2016, I said the next President should pick the next Supreme Court justice. This vacancy was a central issue during the 2016 campaign and the people have spoken by electing President Trump and returning a Republican Senate majority. I applaud the President for his excellent choice, and I look forward to enthusiastically working toward Judge Gorsuch’s confirmation. [3]

    		”

    Ted Cruz (R)

    Senator Cruz released the following statement after meeting with Judge Gorsuch in Cruz's Senate office:[33]

    “

    Judge Neil Gorsuch is an impressive jurist who takes seriously his obligation to interpret the law and to follow the Constitution. One of the things I was most encouraged about, when talking with him today, was his understanding that the job of a judge, as outlined in Article III of the Constitution, is simply to apply the law. And he contrasted that to the job of Congress, as outlined in Article I, which is to pass laws.

    We need judges who understand this distinction, who do not think that when you put on a robe, you suddenly get to enact whatever policies or laws you might personally favor. That’s the judicial humility that used to be characteristic of the Supreme Court. Judge Gorsuch understands the critical, yet limited role of a judge which is to apply the law, not to decree whatever policies that particular judge might favor. [3]

    		”

    Ben Sasse (R)

    Senator Sasse released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[34]

    “

    Neil Gorsuch is a highly-regarded jurist with a record of distinguished service, rooted in respect for the law. He was confirmed unanimously by Democrats and Republicans. Senator Schumer is about to tell Americans that Judge Gorsuch kicks puppies and heckles piano recitals. That’s hogwash. Democrats are working overtime to cast Judge Gorsuch as a reflexive partisan but, as I said when Justice Scalia died, there are no Republican or Democratic seats on the Supreme Court. This shouldn’t be a partisan debate but an opportunity to teach our kids civics. In the coming weeks, everyone who loves the Constitution should celebrate the uniquely American idea that government power must be limited and that those in power must be checked and balanced. [3]

    		”

    Jeff Flake (R)

    Senator Flake issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[35]

    “

    Nominating Supreme Court justices is one of the most consequential acts a president can take, and providing advice and consent is one of the Senate's most vital roles. Filling Justice Scalia’s seat with a principled conservative who will interpret the Constitution rather than legislate from the bench should be our top priority. I am confident that Judge Neil Gorsuch fits the bill, and I'll do whatever I can to see that he receives an up or down vote on the floor of the Senate. [3]

    		”

    Mike Crapo (R)

    Senator Crapo released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[36]

    “

    Judge Gorsuch has a strong background of legal experience and knowledge. I congratulate him on this high honor. I take seriously my constitutional responsibility to thoroughly review this nomination. As that review is conducted, I have long said that our next justice must look first and foremost to the Constitution for guidance in all legal matters. I look forward to meeting with Judge Gorsuch during the confirmation process and learning more about his judicial philosophy. [3]

    		”

    Thom Tillis (R)

    Senator Tillis released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[37]

    “

    Judge Neil Gorsuch is an incredibly qualified and mainstream choice to serve on the Supreme Court. He has proven himself to be a judge who approaches every case before him with fairness, and bases his decisions on the rule of law. I hope my colleagues in the Senate, regardless of party, will join me in thoughtfully considering Judge Gorsuch as our next Supreme Court justice. [3]

    		”

    John Kennedy (R)

    Senator Kennedy issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[38]

    “

    The role of the Senate is to provide ‘advice and consent.’ Many Americans are going to have to live with this Justice the rest of their natural lives. His decisions will affect many facets of their lives, economically, socially, culturally, and spiritually,” said Sen. Kennedy. “The American people deserve a full and fair vetting process. I like what I see so far, but look forward to learning more in the confirmation process. Neil Gorsuch is obviously very well-qualified based on his education and background, but I want to know what’s in his heart. I want to know what he thinks about past Supreme Court decisions and how the Justices reached those decisions. I want to know whether he thinks personal preferences have a role in the judicial decision-making. I want to know if he knows the name of the person who cleans his office. Also, I’m rather fond of the U.S. Constitution, and I want to make sure he is, too. [3]

    		”

    Democratic members

    Dianne Feinstein (D), Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member

    Senator Feinstein released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[39]

    “

    Evaluating Supreme Court nominees is among our most important responsibilities as senators and over the last few days we’ve seen the importance of an independent judiciary. I’ve repeatedly stated that the next justice must have respect for precedent, be within the mainstream and protect the fundamental rights guaranteed by our Constitution. Judge Gorsuch has a long record and it will take time to conduct a thorough review.

    I firmly believe the Supreme Court must be a fair arbiter of the law—not simply another political body that makes decisions based on ideology or partisanship. Unfortunately, Senate Republicans have played politics with this seat by refusing to hold courtesy meetings, hearings or even debate on Chief Judge Garland, who had an impeccable 20-year record of service.

    I am deeply concerned that throughout his campaign the president promised to use litmus tests when choosing his nominee. Last October, when asked about the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, then-candidate Trump said 'That will happen automatically, in my opinion, because I am putting pro-life justices on the court.'

    Then tonight, President Trump declared, ‘I am a man of my word.’ That’s exactly what I’m afraid of. Judge Gorsuch voted twice to deny contraceptive coverage to women, elevating a corporation’s religious beliefs over women’s health care.

    At a time when public trust in our institutions is at an all-time low and our country is bitterly divided, a thorough and fair review is vitally important. [3]

    		”

    Patrick Leahy (D)

    Senator Leahy issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[40]

    “

    In light of the unconstitutional actions of our new President in just his first week, the Senate owes the American people a thorough and unsparing examination of this nomination. I had hoped that President Trump would work in a bipartisan way to pick a mainstream nominee like Merrick Garland and bring the country together. Instead, he outsourced this process to far-right interest groups. This is no way to treat a co-equal branch of government, or to protect the independence of our Federal judiciary.

    Before Senate Republicans waged the unprecedented blockade of Chief Judge Garland’s nomination to the Supreme Court last year, the Senate took seriously its constitutional duty to provide advice and consent on nominees to the highest court in the land. But Republicans abdicated the Senate’s constitutional role by choosing politically-charged obstruction, so that a president who lost the popular vote could nominate extreme candidates to the Supreme Court.

    President Trump said he would appoint justices who would overturn 40 years of jurisprudence established in Roe v. Wade. Judge Gorsuch has shown a willingness to limit women’s access to health care that suggests the President is making good on that promise. At his confirmation hearing in 2006, Judge Gorsuch stated, ‘Precedent is to be respected and honored,’ and he said it is ‘unacceptable’ for a judge to try to impose “his own personal views, his politics, [or] his personal preferences.’ Yet last year he tried to do just that, calling for important precedent to be overturned because it does not align with his personal philosophy. From my initial review of his record, I question whether Judge Gorsuch meets the high standard set by Merrick Garland. And with the ideological litmus test that President Trump has applied in making this selection, the American people are justified to wonder whether Judge Gorsuch can truly be an independent justice. I intend to ask Judge Gorsuch about these and other important issues in the coming months. [3]

    		”

    Dick Durbin (D)

    Senator Durbin issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[41]

    “

    Only 12 days into this administration, we’ve already seen unlawful executive orders blocked by a federal court, and the unprecedented dismissal of an Attorney General for disagreeing with the president. I believe the independence of our judicial system, and especially the Supreme Court, is more critical now than at any time in recent history. That is the context in which I will review this nomination.

    I will meet with Judge Gorsuch and support a hearing and a vote for him — both of which were denied to an eminently qualified nominee presented by President Obama.

    The American people need to know what they can expect from this nominee, and that he will protect our fundamental constitutional rights on issues like voting rights, immigration, privacy, and women’s health. In recent years, the court’s decisions have shifted dramatically toward big money corporate interests at the expense of American workers and small businesses — we need a Court that is on the side of Main Street, not Wall Street.

    This Supreme Court seat does not belong to President Trump or to any political party. It belongs to the American people, and I will work to make sure their voices are heard in this debate. [3]

    		”

    Sheldon Whitehouse (D)

    Senator Whitehouse was quoted in The Providence Journal on January 31, 2017:[42]

    “

    The most important question President Trump's nominee will face is where he will stand on the special interest politics that has stricken the Court ... For years, a gang of five Republican appointees took direction from big right-wing lobbies ... Their efforts have corrupted our politics with special-interest 'dark money'; exacerbated the plague of guns; protected powerful corporations from answering to juries; busted unions; and given Republicans election advantages. Often, the Gang of 5 ignored conservative judicial doctrine to achieve political outcomes benefiting a 'usual suspects' list of special interests active before the Court. This has to stop, and Judge Gorsuch must pledge to stop it. [3]

    		”

    Amy Klobuchar (D)

    Senator Klobuchar released the following statement on February 1, 2017:[43]

    “

    Senators have a solemn obligation to advise and consent on a President’s nominee for the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court makes decisions that affect the lives of people across the country. We need to thoroughly examine Judge Gorsuch, his respect for precedent, and his views on issues that matter to the American people. I have concerns about his views and record on issues including those involving separation of powers, campaign finance, and consumer protection. This nominee deserves serious scrutiny. And to be clear, there is a 60 vote threshold for this nominee to be confirmed, it’s not 51 like the other nominees that are before us now. [3]

    		”


    Al Franken (D)

    Senator Franken released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[44]

    “

    Long before his election, President Trump promised to appoint a Supreme Court justice in the mold of Antonin Scalia, who held a deeply conservative view of the Constitution and the Court. In the coming weeks, I will be closely examining Neil Gorsuch's background, but I have serious concerns about his judicial philosophy-especially on issues like access to justice, corporate accountability, workers' rights, and women's health. I was hopeful that the President would have selected someone like Merrick Garland, a consensus candidate lauded by the same Republicans who ultimately refused to hold a hearing on him for nearly a year. [3]

    		”

    Christopher Coons (D)

    Senator Coons was interviewed by Rachel Martin on National Public Radio on February 1, 2017:[45]



    Richard Blumenthal (D)

    Senator Blumenthal released the following statement on January 31, 2017:[46]

    “

    I have deep, serious concerns about Judge Gorsuch. Whatever his credentials are on paper, most important to me are the real life impacts of his judicial opinions and views. An extreme ideologue on the Court will threaten privacy rights including women’s health care, worker and consumer protections, and public health and safety.

    We should strive to insulate the Court from partisan politics – which includes rejecting an ideologically extreme nominee. I have reached no conclusion, but I will support a hearing and a vote. If I conclude that Judge Gorsuch is out of the mainstream, then I will pursue every legal tool available to block his nomination. [3]

    		”

    Mazie Hirono (D)

    Senator Hirono issued the following statement on January 31, 2017:[47]

    “

    In his first two weeks as President, Donald Trump has demonstrated minimal tolerance for independent thinking and dissent. I am deeply concerned that his choice for the Supreme Court, Judge Neil Gorsuch, will be a rubber stamp for the President's radical agenda. We owe it to the American people to vet this nominee extensively and exhaustively. In the weeks and months ahead, I will carefully scrutinize Judge Gorsuch's judicial philosophy, his views on a woman's constitutional right to an abortion, his position on voting rights, and his thoughts on the balance between individual rights and corporate power, among other subjects. [3]

    		”


    Senators by state

    To find the comments of your senators, please click your state in the table below:

    Click below to find U.S. senators' comments about the nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court.
    State State
    Alabama Montana
    Alaska Nebraska
    Arizona Nevada
    Arkansas New Hampshire
    California New Jersey
    Colorado New Mexico
    Connecticut New York
    Delaware North Carolina
    Florida North Dakota
    Georgia Ohio
    Hawaii Oklahoma
    Idaho Oregon
    Illinois Pennsylvania
    Indiana Rhode Island
    Iowa South Carolina
    Kansas South Dakota
    Kentucky Tennessee
    Louisiana Texas
    Maine Utah
    Maryland Vermont
    Massachusetts Virginia
    Michigan Washington
    Minnesota West Virginia
    Mississippi Wisconsin
    Missouri Wyoming


    Meeting schedule

    Meeting schedule for U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch with U.S. senators
    Senator State represented Scheduled meeting date
    Maggie Hassan Democratic Party New Hampshire February 27, 2017
    Tom Udall Democratic Party New Mexico February 27, 2017
    Bob Casey Democratic Party Pennsylvania February 16, 2017
    Johnny Isakson Republican Party Georgia February 15, 2017
    Patrick Leahy Democratic Party Vermont February 15, 2017
    Chris Coons Democratic Party Delaware February 14, 2017
    Dick Durbin Democratic Party Illinois February 14, 2017
    Mazie Hirono Democratic Party Hawaii February 14, 2017
    Mike Enzi Republican Party Wyoming February 13, 2017
    Joni Ernst Republican Party Iowa February 13, 2017
    John Kennedy Republican Party Louisiana February 13, 2017
    Todd Young Republican Party Indiana February 13, 2017
    Roy Blunt Republican Party Missouri February 10, 2017
    David Perdue Republican Party Georgia February 10, 2017
    Roger Wicker Republican Party Mississippi February 10, 2017
    Susan Collins Republican Party Maine February 9, 2017
    Steve Daines Republican Party Montana February 9, 2017
    Dean Heller Republican Party Nevada February 9, 2017
    Lisa Murkowski Republican Party Alaska February 9, 2017
    Thom Tillis Republican Party North Carolina February 9, 2017
    Richard Blumenthal Democratic Party Connecticut February 8, 2017
    Jeff Flake Republican Party Arizona February 8, 2017
    Heidi Heitkamp Democratic Party North Dakota February 8, 2017
    Claire McCaskill Democratic Party Missouri February 8, 2017
    John Thune Republican Party South Dakota February 8, 2017
    Tom Cotton Republican Party Arkansas February 7, 2017
    Mike Crapo Republican Party Idaho February 7, 2017
    Ben Sasse Republican Party Nebraska February 7, 2017
    Chuck Schumer Democratic Party New York February 7, 2017
    Dianne Feinstein Democratic Party California February 6, 2017
    Jon Tester Democratic Party Montana February 6, 2017
    Lamar Alexander Republican Party Tennessee February 2, 2017
    Shelley Moore Capito Republican Party West Virginia February 2, 2017
    Bob Corker Republican Party Tennessee February 2, 2017
    Ted Cruz Republican Party Texas February 2, 2017
    Lindsey Graham Republican Party South Carolina February 2, 2017
    John Cornyn Republican Party Texas February 1, 2017
    Cory Gardner Republican Party Colorado February 1, 2017
    Chuck Grassley Republican Party Iowa February 1, 2017
    Orrin Hatch Republican Party Utah February 1, 2017
    Joe Manchin Democratic Party West Virginia February 1, 2017
    Mitch McConnell Republican Party Kentucky February 1, 2017
    Schedules are determined based on announcements from a senator's office or from the White House as well as reporting from various media sources.


    Whip count

    Final Senate vote on confirmation of Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court (updated 4/7/2017)
    Voting Yes (54) Voting No (45)
    Republican Party Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Democratic Party Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.)
    Republican Party John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) Democratic Party Michael Bennet (D-Colo.)
    Republican Party Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) Democratic Party Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.)
    Republican Party John Boozman (R-Ark.) Democratic Party Cory Booker (D-N.J.)
    Republican Party Richard Burr (R-N.C.) Democratic Party Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)
    Republican Party Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) Democratic Party Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.)
    Republican Party Bill Cassidy (R-La.) Democratic Party Ben Cardin (D-Md.)
    Republican Party Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) Democratic Party Tom Carper (D-Del.)
    Republican Party Susan Collins (R-Maine) Democratic Party Bob Casey (D-Pa.)
    Republican Party Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) Democratic Party Chris Coons (D-Del.)
    Republican Party John Cornyn (R-Texas) Democratic Party Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)
    Republican Party Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) Democratic Party Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.)
    Republican Party Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) Democratic Party Dick Durbin (D-Ill.)
    Republican Party Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Democratic Party Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)
    Republican Party Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Democratic Party Al Franken (D-Minn.)
    Democratic Party Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) Democratic Party Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.)
    Republican Party Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) Democratic Party Kamala Harris (D-Calif.)
    Republican Party Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) Democratic Party Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.)
    Republican Party Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) Democratic Party Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)
    Republican Party Jeff Flake (R-Ariz. ) Democratic Party Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii)
    Republican Party Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) Democratic Party Tim Kaine (D-Va.)
    Republican Party Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) Independent Angus King (I-Maine)
    Republican Party Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) Democratic Party Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.)
    Republican Party Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) Democratic Party Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.)
    Democratic Party Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) Democratic Party Ed Markey (D-Mass.)
    Republican Party Dean Heller (R-Nev.) Democratic Party Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.)
    Republican Party John Hoeven (R-N.D.) Democratic Party Robert Menendez (D-N.J.)
    Republican Party Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) Democratic Party Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.)
    Republican Party Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) Democratic Party Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)
    Republican Party John Kennedy (R-La.) Democratic Party Patty Murray (D-Wash.)
    Republican Party James Lankford (R-Okla.) Democratic Party Bill Nelson (D-Fla.)
    Republican Party Mike Lee (R-Utah) Democratic Party Gary Peters (D-Mich.)
    Democratic Party Joe Manchin (D-W.V.) Democratic Party Jack Reed (D-R.I.)
    Republican Party John McCain (R-Ariz.) Independent Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.)
    Republican Party Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Democratic Party Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii)
    Republican Party Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) Democratic Party Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.)
    Republican Party Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) Democratic Party Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.)
    Republican Party Rand Paul (R-Ky.) Democratic Party Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.)
    Republican Party David Perdue (R-Ga.) Democratic Party Jon Tester (D-Mont.)
    Republican Party Rob Portman (R-Ohio) Democratic Party Tom Udall (D-N.M.)
    Republican Party Jim Risch (R-Idaho) Democratic Party Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.)
    Republican Party Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) Democratic Party Mark Warner (D-Va.)
    Republican Party Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) Democratic Party Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.)
    Republican Party Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Democratic Party Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.)
    Republican Party Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) Democratic Party Ron Wyden (D-Ore.)
    Republican Party Tim Scott (R-S.C.)
    Republican Party Richard Shelby (R-Ala.)
    Republican Party Luther Strange (R-Ala.)
    Republican Party Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska)
    Republican Party John Thune (R-S.D.)
    Republican Party Thom Tillis (R-N.C.)
    Republican Party Pat Toomey (R-Pa.)
    Republican Party Roger Wicker (R-Miss.)
    Republican Party Todd Young (R-Ind.)
    Senators' votes are determined based on announcements from a senator's office or from the White House as well as reporting from various media sources.



    See also

    Footnotes

    1. ↑ The New York Times, "Justice Antonin Scalia, Who Led a Conservative Renaissance on the Supreme Court, Is Dead at 79," February 13, 2016
    2. ↑ The White House, "President Donald J. Trump nominates Neil Gorsuch to the United States Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    3. ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 3.23 3.24 3.25 3.26 3.27 3.28 3.29 3.30 3.31 3.32 3.33 3.34 3.35 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
    4. ↑ Politico, "Gorsuch confirmation hearing set for March 20," February 16, 2017
    5. ↑ YouTube, "Vice President Pence on the Supreme Court fight, the travel ban and Bannon’s sway," February 1, 2017
    6. ↑ Twitter, "Vice President Pence," January 31, 2017
    7. ↑ Twitter, "Vice President Pence," January 31, 2017
    8. ↑ Twitter, "Vice President Pence," January 31, 2017
    9. ↑ The Salt Late Tribune, "Hatch: Like Scalia, Gorsuch has shown steady devotion to Constitution," January 31, 2017
    10. ↑ Politico, "Give Neil Gorsuch an Up-Or-Down Vote," February 6, 2017
    11. ↑ Senator John Cornyn, "Cornyn statement of President Trump's Supreme Court announcement," January 31, 2017
    12. ↑ Senator John Thune, "Thune: President's Supreme Court nominee is exceptional jurist," January 31, 2017
    13. ↑ Senator Roy Blunt, "Blunt praises nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to serve on U.S. Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    14. ↑ Senator John Barrasso, "Barrasso statement on Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch," January 31, 2017
    15. ↑ Senator Cory Gardner, "Gardner meets with Supreme Court nominee Judge Neil Gorsuch," February 1, 2017
    16. ↑ Senator Cory Gardner, "Gardner statement on Supreme Court nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch," January 31, 2017
    17. ↑ Politico, "Neil Gorsuch needs 60 votes," February 7, 2017
    18. ↑ Belleville News-Democrat, "Dick Durbin issues statement on Trump's Supreme Court nominee," January 31, 2017
    19. ↑ Fox News, "Murray expreses 'serious concerns about moving forward' on court nominee; Cantwell vows thorough review," January 31, 2017
    20. ↑ YouTube, "All in with Chris Hayes 1/31/17: Sen. Stabenow on Mnuchin, Price: 'The Truth Matters,'" January 31, 2017
    21. ↑ Senator Joe Manchin, "Manchin statement on President's Supreme Court nominee," January 31, 2017
    22. ↑ Facebook, "U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren," January 31, 2017
    23. ↑ Senator Mark Warner, "Statement of Sen. Warner on nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch for Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    24. ↑ Senator Tammy Baldwin, "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin statement on President Trump's U.S. Supreme Court nomination," January 31, 2017
    25. ↑ Senator Amy Klobuchar, "Klobuchar Statement on the President’s Nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court," February 1, 2017
    26. ↑ Senator Bernie Sanders, "Sanders statement on Supreme Court nominee," January 31, 2017
    27. ↑ Talking Points Memo, "Dems finally have a chance for revenge on SCOTUS, but will they take it?" February 1, 2017
    28. ↑ Senator Chuck Grassley, "Grassley statement on Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch," January 31, 2017
    29. ↑ The Salt Late Tribune, "Hatch: Like Scalia, Gorsuch has shown steady devotion to Constitution," January 31, 2017
    30. ↑ Senator Lindsey Graham, "Graham on Judge Gorsuch for the Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    31. ↑ Senator John Cornyn, "Cornyn statement of President Trump's Supreme Court announcement," January 31, 2017
    32. ↑ Senator Mike Lee, "Lee praises President Trump's Supreme Court pick," January 31, 2017
    33. ↑ Senator Ted Cruz, "Sen. Cruz: Judge Gorsuch Takes Seriously His Obligation to Interpret the Law and Follow the Constitution," February 2, 2017
    34. ↑ Senator Ben Sasse, "Sasse statement on Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    35. ↑ Senator Jeff Flake, "Flake statement on Supreme Court nominee Judge Gorsuch," January 31, 2017
    36. ↑ Senator Mike Crapo, "Crapo comments on the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to be an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    37. ↑ Twitter, "Senator Thom Tillis," January 31, 2017
    38. ↑ AmericanPress.com, "Sen. Kennedy: 'I like what I see so far' about Gorsuch," January 31, 2017
    39. ↑ Senator Dianne Feinstein, "Feinstein on Supreme Court nominee," January 31, 2017
    40. ↑ Senator Patrick Leahy, "Statement on the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court of the United States," January 31, 2017
    41. ↑ Belleville News-Democrat, "Dick Durbin issues statement on Trump's Supreme Court nominee," January 31, 2017
    42. ↑ The Providence Journal, "R.I. delegation questions Trump's choice for Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    43. ↑ Senator Amy Klobuchar, "Klobuchar Statement on the President’s Nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court," February 1, 2017
    44. ↑ Senator Al Franken, "Sen. Franken's statement on President Trump's nomination of Neil Gorsuch for U.S. Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
    45. ↑ National Public Radio, "Sen. Chris Coons comments on Democrats' plans for high court nominee," February 1, 2017
    46. ↑ Facebook, "Senator Richard Blumenthal," January 31, 2017
    47. ↑ Senator Mazie Hirono, "Hirono statement on nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court," January 31, 2017
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