Klobuchar votes against Mukasey

11/12/2007

Sen. Amy Klobuchar voted against the nomination of retired judge Michael Mukasey as attorney general Thursday night, citing concerns she had about his independence from the White House.


Associated Press | November 09, 2007 – 8:23 AM



WASHINGTON - Sen. Amy Klobuchar voted against the nomination of retired judge Michael Mukasey as attorney general Thursday night, citing concerns she had about his independence from the White House.

Mukasey was confirmed on a 53-40 vote, with only six Democrats voting for him.

Republicans were solidly behind the nominee, including Minnesota Sen. Norm Coleman, who had previously said that Mukasey's credentials "appear to be nothing short of impeccable.''

In a prepared statement, Klobuchar, D-Minn., said that the attorney general must be independent.

"In his testimony before the Judiciary Committee, Judge Mukasey did not demonstrate a clear, firm understanding that the attorney general's first commitment is to our Constitution, not the current resident of the White House,'' she said.

"Judge Mukasey does have an impressive record as a public servant. I hope that he will demonstrate a commitment to uphold the rule of law and help restore the public's trust in the Department of Justice.''