    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [June 9, 2005]
    [Page 964]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Confirmation of Judges for the United States Court
    of Appeals
    June 9, 2005

        I am pleased that the Senate voted today to confirm three
    distinguished and highly qualified judges to the United States Court of
    Appeals: Judge Bill Pryor, Judge
    Richard Griffin, and Judge David
    McKeague.
        More than a year ago, I recess appointed Judge Pryor to the United States Court of Appeals for the
    Eleventh Circuit to fill a vacancy that had been designated a judicial
    emergency by the Judicial Conference of the United States. Judge Pryor's
    recent service on the Eleventh Circuit has built on an impressive career
    of public service in which he has applied the law fairly and impartially
    to all people. I commend the Senate for fulfilling its constitutional
    responsibility to vote on Judge Pryor and for confirming him so that he
    will continue his service on this court.
        Both Judge Griffin and Judge
    McKeague have served on the Michigan
    courts for more than a decade, during which time each has demonstrated a
    strong commitment to the rule of law. Both are well qualified to serve
    on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and will
    fill vacancies that have been designated judicial emergencies by the
    Judicial Conference of the United States.
        These three nominees have waited a
    combined total of over 8 years for their votes. I applaud the Senate for
    today giving these fine nominees the up-or-down votes they deserve.