Confirmation Hearings for Judge Souter

As I watched the confirmation hearings, I was distressed with the way the Judicial Committee conducted itself. Not only were many of the question-and-answer sessions more akin to political speeches, but some senators (Edward Kennedy and Joseph Biden, in particular) seemed more intent in finding out Souter’s personal opinions and philosophies in order to discredit him. Didn’t they hear him repeat over and over again his respect for the law and the Constitution, and his commitment to decide a case based on such only when it comes before the Supreme Court?

While I appreciate the necessity of the hearings, it’s sad to see someone who evidently has no political agenda to press on the Supreme Court be subjected to what has become the politicization of a judicial process. Still, Judge Souter handled himself with aplomb. He has shown he is a man of charm, eloquence and knowledge of the law. To paraphrase a current sports quote, most of these senators couldn’t carry his briefs, legal or otherwise.

JOHN J. BRAMMER

West Covina