Replies

I was hounding FL Bill Nelson until he came out in support of Estrada. Below is his email reply I just received today. The delay in his reply might be an indication of his office being swamped. I guess I was honored with a reply because I'm a FL voter. Now on to Graham - the only thing I get from him is a form letter.

Thank you for contacting me regarding the nomination of Mr. Miguel Estrada to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. After reviewing Mr. Estrada's personal and professional credentials -- including personally interviewing the nominee -- I believe he is qualified to serve on the D.C. Circuit Court. At the same time, I very much respect those senators who desire to have additional information about Mr. Estrada's personal beliefs. Their efforts reflect our sound commitment to the Senate's constitutional obligation to advise and consent on the appointment of federal judges. Federal judges must possess a high degree of knowledge of established legal principles and procedures and must also be impartial, even tempered, and have a well-defined sense of justice, compassion, and fair play. In addition, a judge must have the integrity to leave legislating to lawmakers.

I believe Mr. Estrada possesses the knowledge and skills needed to be a successful court of appeals judge. Few would argue with his academic credentials, litigation experience, or intelligence. And, based on my conversations with him and those who know him well, I believe he respects-and will honor-his moral and legal obligation to uphold the law impartially.

I take seriously my role to advise and consent on judicial nominations, and I appreciate your input. Your communication is important and enables me to serve you better in the Senate.

I just sent the following to MN's democrat senator:

Senator Dayton,

I see you voted against cloture on the Miguel Estrada filibuster. I can only conclude one of two things: either you are racially discriminating against a highly qualified individual, or you are engaging in a seriously partisan political power-play. Would you tell me which it is?

Mr. Estrada is emminently qualified, receiving the highest approval from the ABA. That used to be one of the the Democrat's essential tests. He is an hispanic, is that the reason you can't support him? He offered to meet personally with any senator; did you ask for such a meeting? You were given an opportunity to submit any questions in writing for his answers; might I ask what questions you submitted?

If this is purely political, which is what I suspect, it is beneith you and your position as a representative of the people of Minnesota. I, obviously, support immediate approval of Miguel Estrada, and ask you to support his nomination.

Sincerely,