[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 101 (Thursday, July 28, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 28, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
          CONFIRMATION OF STEPHEN BREYER TO THE SUPREME COURT

  Mr. PELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to support the nomination of 
Stephen Breyer to become an Associate Justice on the United States 
Supreme Court and I believe that President Clinton has made a wise and 
timely choice in choosing him for the upcoming vacancy on the Court.
  In stating my support for Judge Breyer, I salute President Clinton 
for his primary role in making this nomination. The President has had 
two opportunities to fill vacancies on the Supreme Court and he has 
made outstanding choices in first nominating Ruth Bader Ginsburg last 
year and now Stephen Breyer. His choices reflect moderation and respect 
for the Court's role as the supreme arbiter of laws for all citizens in 
this country, regardless of political leanings and agendas. He has 
likewise taken the lead in appointing similarly qualified and diverse 
candidates to the lower courts. The President deserves great credit for 
carrying out with such attention and care his solemn duties with regard 
to appointing members of the Judiciary.
  Specifically regarding Judge Breyer, he has gone through a 
confirmation process which has been pleasantly harmonious, and 
bipartisan. He is much praised for his intellect, moderation, 
compassion, temperament, dedication to principle, respect for the law, 
and his ability to forge consensus rather than encourage division. I 
join in these assessments of his record. I am also confident that he 
will bring these much-needed qualities to a Supreme Court which has 
been subject to polarization in recent years. A calm hand and a 
reasoned voice will be welcome and if history is any guide, Judge 
Breyer will provide just such an influence.
  Accordingly, I wholeheartedly support the confirmation of Judge 
Breyer for the Supreme Court, congratulate him on the accomplishments 
of his career, extend every good wish as he assumes the duties and 
responsibilities of his post, and look forward to a long and 
distinguished tenure for him on the bench.

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