Washington, DC — As the Senate hearing on the historic nomination of Vanita Gupta as Associate Attorney General of the United States wrapped up, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“Vanita Gupta, one of the country’s most renowned and effective civil rights advocates who has dedicated her career to fighting for justice, showed today why she is so eminently qualified to be confirmed as Associate Attorney General. For years, the far right has aimed attacks against women, people of color, and historically marginalized communities, and today she stood up to those attacks as Republican senators repeatedly distorted her record. She was clear about advocating for public safety and supporting investments in mental health and other resources for frontline responders and law enforcement agencies so that all communities can feel safe. At such a critical time in our history, Ms. Gupta is exactly who we need fighting for us at the Department of Justice. She is more than qualified for the role of Associate Attorney General and has worked tirelessly for greater equity in our criminal justice system since her historic work in Tulia, Texas. Vanita Gupta made it clear that she will advance the rights and dignity of every person in America. We strongly urge the Senate to confirm Vanita Gupta. Her fight is our fight.”

About People For the American Way 

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitabl opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.

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