What they said

Reaction from Congress and various outside groups to President Barack Obama’s nomination of federal appeals judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court:

‘Senate Republicans will treat Judge Sotomayor fairly. But we will thoroughly examine her record to ensure she understands that the role of a jurist in our democracy is to apply the law evenhandedly, despite their own feelings or personal or political preferences.”

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

‘With eight men, one woman and no Hispanics currently sitting on the court, President Obama listened to voices like former Justice Sandra Day O’Connor in recognizing that diversity on the bench is essential.”

Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif.

‘Sotomayor’s record on the bench, at first glance, appears undistinguished. She will not bring to the table the firepower that many liberal academics are asking for.”

John Yoo

Former Justice Department lawyer who wrote memos during the Bush administration on the legality of harsh interrogation techniques

‘I commend President Obama for nominating a well-qualified woman.”

Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine.

‘While I would have liked to see a more conservative libertarian type on the high court, President Obama’s selection of New York federal appeals court Judge Sonia Sotomayor was a very prudent and wise decision from a far left liberal like Obama.”

Larry Klayman

Founder, chairman and general counsel of Freedom Watch

‘Judge Sotomayor’s remarkable life story is an inspiring example of the American dream, and she has a highly distinguished legal background. She’ll bring intelligence, insight, and experience to the vital work of protecting the fundamental rights and liberties of all Americans.”

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass.