President Obama today nominated Solicitor General Elena Kagan to fill the vacancy left by departing Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens.

People For the American Way President Michael B. Keegan issued the following statement:

“Elena Kagan is a bright and clearly qualified nominee. I look forward to the confirmation process and learning more about the judicial philosophy she’ll bring to the high court.

“This confirmation process presents a unique opportunity for a dialogue about the role of the Court and the meaning of our Constitution. Over recent years, the Roberts Court has pushed a political agenda from the bench, favoring corporations and powerful interests over the rights of ordinary people. We’ve seen longstanding Constitutional principles and laws designed to protect families and individuals casually tossed aside in pursuit of a rigidly conservative ideology.

“We congratulate Solicitor General Kagan on her nomination, and look forward to our national conversation in the weeks and months ahead.”