Gang of 14 member Senator Ken Salazar of Colorado strongly criticized Supreme Court nominee Judge Samuel Alito today. From the
Pueblo Chieftain:
In a telephone press conference, Salazar repeated that he had not made a final decision on Alito, but went on to express his doubts about the federal appeals court judge. In particular, Salazar said he questioned whether Alito would set aside his personal political views when making court decisions.
Saying he was reviewing Alito's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Salazar said he was concerned about Alito's support for a "unitary" or broad view of presidential power as well as his previously expressed disagreement with major civil rights decisions made by the Supreme Court in the 1960s.
Salazar also refused to rule out a filibuster of Alito:
Given his stated objections, reporters asked whether Salazar would rule out a filibuster as an option if he votes against Alito. Salazar declined to do that, although none of the Senate Democrats who have announced their opposition thus far have threatened a filibuster.
I personally am pleased that Salazar criticized Alito on civil rights, an area the Dems have not really hit him on. (Coloradans may recall that as Attorney General Salazar submitted an amicus brief in support of the University of Michigan affirmative action program, over the objection of Governor Bill Owens.)
However, Salazar is not known for sticking his neck out, and my prediction is that if Judiciary Committee Democrats like Sen. Feinstein don't call for a filibuster, Salazar will vote for cloture with them, then vote against the nominee.
(Thanks to Coloradolib for the story.)
Update: Salazar will vote No on Alito. His official announcement is here.