In response to media reports on an agreement worked out by Majority Leader Harry Reid and a portion of the Republican caucus, People For the American Way Vice President Marge Baker issued the following statement.

“Today’s agreement is a big win for Americans who want a government that works. Thanks to this agreement, critical positions in our government will finally be filled with appointees confirmed by the full senate. Senator Reid should be applauded for holding Republicans’ feet to the fire and standing up to the relentless GOP obstruction that has tied our government into knots.

“While I’m glad that some Republicans recognize that their party’s efforts to exploit partisan gridlock have gone too far, there’s no question that too many nominees have had to wait far too long for a simple up or down vote. It’s good news that Republicans have decided to end their years long temper tantrum on these nominees, but it’s only a first step.

“Currently, three of President Obama’s nominees to the DC Circuit are pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee. And although some Republicans have already signaled that all three deserve up or down votes, others are laying the groundwork to block votes not because they oppose the nominees themselves, but because they oppose the President who named them.

“In the coming months, we’ll continue to push for Senate votes on nominees and against Republican senators playing politics with our courts.”

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