WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement in response to the confirmation of Lawrence VanDyke to a Nevada seat on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit:
“I am deeply disappointed to see Mr. VanDyke confirmed to a Nevada seat on the Ninth Circuit,” said Senator Rosen. “Mr. VanDyke’s lack of ties to Nevada, Not Qualified rating from the ABA, extreme views, and history of problematic statements and partisan writings are disqualifying for this lifetime role on one of the highest courts in the nation. It is my hope that Mr. VanDyke will put aside his ideological agenda and work to serve the people of Nevada in good faith, and with equal treatment under the law for all.”
BACKGROUND: Senator Rosen announced her opposition to Mr. VanDyke’s nomination after reviewing his record, meeting with him privately, reviewing his testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on October 30, 2019, and considering a letter from the American Bar Association rating Mr. VanDyke “Not Qualified” for a federal judicial seat.
In October, Senator Rosen, along with Senator Cortez Masto (D-NV), announced the launch of their bipartisan Northern Nevada and Southern Nevada Judicial Commissions. The Senators created two five-member commissions, one in southern Nevada and one in northern Nevada.
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