Judiciary Committee Democrats United in Opposing Right-Wing Ideologue for U.S. Court of Appeals

Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee voted narrowly today to send to the Senate floor the nomination of Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Carolyn Kuhl to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. People For the American Way President Ralph G. Neas said the close vote was an indication that there would be a fierce battle against Kuhl’s confirmation on the Senate floor.

“Carolyn Kuhl has a long and troubling record as a right-wing ideologue and as a judge whose record demonstrates indifference to the rights of individuals,” said Neas. “She does not deserve a powerful lifetime seat on the federal appeals court.”

Neas noted that Kuhl is opposed by both senators from her home state of California. During the Clinton administration, Senate Judiciary Committee Orrin Hatch allowed a single home-state senator to prevent a nomination from moving forward by utilizing the “blue slip” policy. But he has unilaterally changed the rules for Bush administration nominees, allowing Kuhl’s nomination to move forward in spite of intense opposition by Sen. Barbara Boxer, and in spite of Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s decision to oppose Kuhl.

“I am convinced that the more senators learn about Kuhl’s record, the more they will understand that this nomination should be rejected,” Neas said. “Senators should take all appropriate action to prevent Kuhl from taking a lifetime position on the federal bench.”