    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [January 31, 2006]
    [Pages 145-146]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Confirmation of Samuel A. Alito, Jr., To Be an Associate Justice of the United States
    Supreme Court
    January 31, 2006

        I am pleased that the Senate has voted to confirm Judge Sam Alito as
    the 110th Justice of the Supreme Court. Sam Alito is a brilliant and
    fair-minded judge who strictly interprets the Constitution and laws and
    does not legislate from the bench. He is a man of deep character and
    integrity, and he will make all Americans proud as a Justice on our
    highest Court. The son of an Italian immigrant, Judge Alito's
    appointment to the Supreme Court is the realization of the American
    dream for this good man and his family. I congratulate Judge Alito, his
    wife, Martha, the Alito children, and Judge Alito's
    mother, Rose, on this historic achievement and
    momentous day in the life of our country.
        Judge Alito replaces Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Justice O'Connor was the first woman ever to sit on the
    Supreme Court, and she is one of the most admired Americans of our time
    or any time. Our Nation is grateful to Justice O'Connor for her
    extraordinary and dedicated public service, and Laura and I wish her and John all the best.

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