Senator Collins’ Statement on Supreme Court Vacancy

Bangor, ME—U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement on the Supreme Court vacancy:

“In order for the American people to have faith in their elected officials, we must act fairly and consistently—no matter which political party is in power.  President Trump has the constitutional authority to make a nomination to fill the Supreme Court vacancy, and I would have no objection to the Senate Judiciary Committee's beginning the process of reviewing his nominee's credentials.

“Given the proximity of the presidential election, however, I do not believe that the Senate should vote on the nominee prior to the election.  In fairness to the American people, who will either be re-electing the President or selecting a new one, the decision on a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court should be made by the President who is elected on November 3rd.”