Rep. Schakowsky Statement on President Obama's Supreme Court Nomination

Today, Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement after the President announced Merrick Garland as his nomination to the Supreme Court:

"I am very glad that President Obama has fulfilled his Constitutional duty by nominating Judge Merrick Garland to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court. Now it is time for the Senate to fulfill their Constitutional responsibilities by giving this nominee a fair hearing and then bringing the nomination to a vote. Judge Garland’s strong credentials, Chicago roots in the 9th District and years of service on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, make him exceptionally qualified to fill this vacancy on the Court. This should be an easy nomination for the Senate to confirm. Sadly, these are not ordinary times in Congress. Senate Republicans are refusing not only a vote but also the courtesy of a hearing or even a meeting with the Supreme Court nominee. This outrageous obstruction continues to paralyze our government and prevents us from getting anything done. This vacancy must be filled as soon as possible. It is time for Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans to do their jobs and follow the Constitution as well as the strong bipartisan will of the American people by allowing a vote on the confirmation of Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court."