Heinrich Opposes Judge Gorsuch, Says Russia Investigation Must Be Completed Before Lifetime Appointment

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued the following statement announcing that he will vote against confirming Judge Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court: 

“There is a darkening cloud over the Trump Administration due to its possible ties to Russia’s hacking and interference in our presidential election. Nearly every day we learn of a new connection or communication with the Russians by the Trump Administration or campaign that had previously been denied. It is increasingly clear that President Trump and his team have not been forthright with the American people.

“Given the multiple congressional and criminal investigations that are tainting this Administration, it would not be responsible to move forward with President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee until these Russia-related allegations are resolved. We simply cannot process a lifetime appointment to the highest court in the land under these circumstances, especially since the court may be called upon to resolve matters related to these investigations.

“I share many of the concerns New Mexicans have expressed about Judge Gorsuch. In particular, I’m concerned about his record of siding with large corporations over the rights of individuals and government action over the rights of citizens, and his boundless deference to executive power.

“For these reasons, I intend to oppose his nomination and cannot support advancing the nominee under these circumstances.”