By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
WASHINGTON, DC—Tuesday, January 10, 2017, US Senator Richard Shelby (R-Alaabama) introduced Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) to the Senate Judiciary Committee.
“Although my friend and colleague Jeff Sessions is well-known to the members of this committee,” Shelby stated, “it is my distinct privilege to introduce him as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as our next United States Attorney General.
“Before joining the Senate, Jeff began his distinguished career as a practicing attorney, Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama, and United States Attorney for Alabama’s Southern District before ultimately becoming the Attorney General of Alabama. During the past twenty years that I have served with Jeff in the Senate, I have had the opportunity to know him well – not just as a skilled attorney with an accomplished record as a prosecutor and legislator, but as a man of extraordinary character.”
Many progressive groups have opposed Session’s nomination as Attorney General, citing his positions on abortion, immigration, same-sex marriage and racially charged comments he has made in the past. In 1986, Sessions’ judicial appointment was derailed over those comments, though former Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pennsylvania) has later stated his opposition to Sessions had been a mistake.
“I have the highest regard not only for his intellect, but for his integrity,” Shelby continued. “Unfortunately, since the announcement of his nomination, Jeff’s political opponents have attacked his character with baseless and tired allegations. But, in reality, Jeff’s extensive record of treating all Americans equally under the law is clear and well-documented. Throughout his decades of public service, including his impressive tenure on this committee, Jeff’s commitment to upholding the rule of law is unparalleled. The integrity, humility, and gravity with which Jeff will approach the office of Attorney General is unquestionable. I have no doubt that he will apply the law with the impartiality required of the job.”
After the hearing, Shelby released the following statement on Sessions’ testimony.
“While it was a long day of questioning, Senator Sessions was well-prepared and represented the state of Alabama admirably. Throughout today’s hearing, Jeff handled himself with the same humility and patience that has earned him the deep respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. I am proud to call Jeff Sessions a dear friend and look forward to continuing to give him my unwavering support throughout the nomination process. He is a man of great integrity who will apply the law fairly to all Americans, and I have no doubt that he will be confirmed by the Judiciary Committee as well as the full Senate.
“I am confident that this committee will report favorably and expeditiously Jeff Sessions’ nomination to be the next United States Attorney General,” Shelby concluded.
