Judge Jackson’s Poise Outshines Shadow of Republican Temper Tantrums 

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 22, 2022 – Today marked the first day of questioning in the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing to consider Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination to the Supreme Court. Throughout the day, Judge Jackson confidently demonstrated her understanding of the law and how well-suited she is to serve as a Supreme Court justice. Ten hours into the hearing, she was still patiently explaining complex legal concepts in great detail. 

Several Senate Republicans engaged in some unsurprising antics. Sen. Lindsey Graham threw a temper tantrum over Judge Jackson’s representation of Guantanamo Bay detainees, falsely accusing her of calling President Bush a “war criminal.” Sen. Ted Cruz used much his time to try to explain racism to the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court. Sen. Josh Hawley, as expected, distorted Judge Jackson’s record for issuing sentences in child pornography possession cases consistent with her peers across the federal courts. Judge Jackson endured these debunked accusations with aplomb, standing by her record without being rattled in the least. 

What stands out from today’s hearing is Judge Jackson’s incredible temperament, patience, and wisdom about the courts. 

Alliance for Justice President Rakim H.D. Brooks issued the following statement: 

“Judge Jackson gave a commanding performance today, expertly displaying her knowledge of the law and her unflappable confidence. Senate Republicans embarrassed themselves each time they tried to undermine Judge Jackson’s credentials and, in the end, her grace under fire only strengthened the case for her confirmation. It’s more evident than ever how qualified she is to serve on the Supreme Court. I don’t envy anyone trying to manufacture a justification for voting against her confirmation.”