Hatch will vote against Sotomayor

Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, announced Friday that he will vote against Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor.

"Although Judge Sotomayor has a compelling life story and dedication to public service, her statements and record were too much at odds with the principles about the judiciary in which I deeply believe," he said in a written statement.

Hatch's statement, however, did not offer any specifics of why he felt she was at odds with the principles of judiciary but talked at length about how reluctant Hatch was to oppose her.

"I entered into the confirmation process of Judge Sotomayor with the strong desire to vote in favor of her nomination. Her credentials and experience are very impressive, and her personal demeanor is pleasantly cordial and friendly," he wrote.

"Arriving at a final decision was particularly difficult because I like and highly respect Judge Sotomayor and, in general, give a great deal of deference to any president's nominee.

"The prospect of a woman of Puerto Rican heritage serving on the Supreme Court brought great excitement to me and says a lot about America," he added.

But, Hatch said, "After thoroughly reviewing Judge Sotomayor's record and being able to hear her testimony and responses during the hearing process, I reluctantly, and with a heavy heart, have found that I cannot support her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.

"In truth, I wish President Obama had chosen a Hispanic nominee that all senators could support. I believe it would have done a great deal for our great country," he said.

"During my analysis, I focused on her record and applied standards and principles that define the kind of judge all Americans need. Qualifications for judicial service include not only legal experience but, more importantly, a nominee's approach to judging."

He added, "This makes Judge Sotomayor's judicial philosophy more important than her stellar resume."

Hatch said he thoroughly examined her record.

"This included reading and studying Judge Sotomayor's speeches, articles and cases; meeting with and hearing from legal experts and advocates from different perspectives; and actively participating in the confirmation hearing," Hatch said.

"It saddens me to realize that after reviewing her record, I have reluctantly concluded that I cannot vote in favor of her confirmation. I wish her well in her future endeavors and believe she is a wonderful and talented American with much to offer this great country."

The Senate Judiciary Committee, on which Hatch is a senior member and former chairman, is expected to vote on Sotomayor's nomination on Tuesday.

While some Republicans have announced opposition to her — including Hatch and Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah — she is still expected to be comfortably confirmed by the Senate.

e-mail: lee@desnews.com