Support for Sotomayor, Obama Continues Widespread

belief in the power of an education.”

Sotomayor’s experience includes several years as an assistant district attorney in New York City, and as an attorney in private practice. She was appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of New York by President George H.W. Bush, and elevated in 1998 to the Second Circuit Court by President Clinton.

“The nomination of such an overwhelmingly qualified judge should be celebrated by all Americans,” commented U.S. Rep. Charlie González (D-Texas), calling it “tangible proof of the strength derived by the diversity represented in American society.”

Contributed Sen. Mel Martínez (R-Fla.), “As a Hispanic American, I take great pride in seeing the nomination of an Hispanic person to serve in this high position — an historic first. Judge Sotomayor’s personal life story is one of great accomplishments and a source of inspiration. It also demonstrates the opportunities our nation has to offer.”

Most conservative groups criticized her nomination. Reacting to her remark seven years about Latinas having special empathy, ex-House Speaker Newt Gingrich called her words racist and urged her to withdraw.

“Very few doubt Judge Sotomayor’s legal experience or her compelling personal story. But confirmation to the Supreme Court should not solely depend on professional experience or biography,” said Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) “Confirmation should primarily be based upon fealty to the Constitution.”

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said he would try to ensure as smooth a confirmation process as possible. “Both Democratic and Republican presidents have nominated Judge Sotomayor to the federal bench, and the Senate has confirmed her with strong bipartisan support... I look forward to working with both Democrats and Republicans.”

Sotomayor’s nomination will be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee before moving on to the full Senate.

(Patricia Guadalupe, of Washington, D.C., covers Capital Hill for Hispanic Link News Service and other Hispanic print and broadcast media.) ©2009