Beautiful statement by Sen. Kerry on retirement of Justice Stevens

[MBS]

Justice Stevens is an American treasure. In an age of fierce partisanship and greater polarization on the Court itself, Justice Stevens stood out not for his ideology, though his convictions were deeply held, but for the way he combined scholarly wisdom with an instinct to boil the law down to its impact on average Americans and their lives.

Justice Stevens reveres the Court, which is why in announcing his retirement he gave President Obama and the Senate the time to nominate his successor and fill the vacancy before the coming October session. We should do so with civility and purpose. This will be a test of the Senate at a time when this and other huge, unavoidable legislative challenges demand action. We've had a record number of filibusters and cloture votes aimed at delaying and deferring work that had to be done. That’s a political strategy for the next election, not a way to govern. I opposed both of President Bush's nominees to the Court. There's nothing wrong with genuine disagreement. But we need a fair and swift confirmation process for the Court vacancy, and even as an enormous responsibility has been added to the Senate agenda this year, we must also break through gridlock and finish legislating on urgent priorities including financial reform to help our economy, and comprehensive energy and climate change reform. We can do all of these things and still confirm a new Justice.

[karynnj]

1. It is a really good statement

Justice Stevens will be missed. He is incredible - and it was surprising seeing him and hearing he is 90 years old.

I hope the Republicans will act reasonably.

[ProSense]

2. Terrific statement

Republicans need to act responsibly.

Posted it here.

[BlueIris]

3. It'll be...interesting to see how the confirmation process for the next justice goes.

I'm predicting issues. The Republicans have no incentive to stop their nasty behavior, and I don't see them putting on the breaks now.

[wisteria]

4. Wonderful statement. I hope this doesn't turn into a battle like the media is already predicting.

There hasn't even been a pick yet, but that doesn't stop some Republicans from already saying they will filibuster. And, then of course there is the climate change bill Kerry has been working on and hoping to introduce soon. I do not want to see this put off because of the bickering over the SC nominee. I am afraid the Repubs could possible use this as an excuse to slow everything down.