Heinrich Calls For FBI To Reopen Kavanaugh Background Investigation Before Proceeding With Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on reopening the background investigation of U.S. Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh:

"When a victim of sexual assault comes forward to make a harrowing allegation like this, it takes tremendous courage and needs to be taken seriously.  Dr. Blasey must be treated with respect, and the matter must be investigated thoroughly by the appropriate law enforcement agency.  None of that can happen in a matter of just a few days.

"The FBI is the appropriate investigatory agency to look at this through the lens of facts, witnesses, and evidence.  This is an extension of the background process, and it is common practice for them to reopen a background check after receiving new, relevant information.

"The sexual assault allegation made against Judge Kavanaugh deserves a thorough, professional investigation by the FBI before proceeding with any vote on his nomination to the highest court in the land."