[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 5 (Monday, February 6, 2006)]
[Page 145]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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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.