[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 23 (Monday, June 13, 2005)]
[Page 968]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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.