"Judge Sotomayor has a compelling life story and a long record of judicial service that will require careful consideration for this most important appointment.
"I look forward to a timely confirmation process that is fair, thorough, and conducted with civility. Until the Judiciary Committee completes its hearings and I have the opportunity to have a discussion with Judge Sotomayor, I will withhold judgment on her nomination.
"As always in making my decisions on judicial appointees, I will evaluate the nominee's integrity, temperament, professional qualifications and accomplishments, and respect for the rule of law and precedents."