[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 11 (Monday, March 18, 2002)]
[Page 423]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Action by the Senate Judiciary Committee on the Nomination of
Charles W. Pickering, Sr.

March 14, 2002

    I am deeply disappointed that Judge Charles Pickering, a 
distinguished judge who was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in the 
past, is being denied the opportunity to further serve his country. The 
action of the Senate Judiciary Committee to refuse Judge Pickering a 
vote by the full Senate leaves another empty seat in the Federal 
judiciary at a time when we face a vacancy crisis. It was unfortunate 
for democracy and unfortunate for America.
    Judge Pickering has earned the praise and support of those who know 
him and know his record best--both Democrats and Republicans from his 
home State of Mississippi. They know him to be a fair and measured 
judge, an advocate of civil rights, and a dedicated member of his 
community. He has served with distinction and deserves better than to be 
blocked by a party line vote of 10 Senators on one committee. The voice 
of the entire Senate deserves to be heard.