Initially, Florida Governor Charlie Crist had no opinion on the Supreme Court nominee, Judge Sonia Sotomayor, but he issued a statement Tuesday, opposing it. Crist said, “I have strong concerns that Judge Sotomayor would not strictly and objectively construe the Constitution and lacks respect for the fundamental right to keep and bear arms.”
But Crist has company for his GOP rival for the U.S. Senate, Marco Rubio, said that he too would oppose the nomination, if he were in the Senate.
On the other hand, Rep. Kendrick of Miami, the Democrat out front in the race supports the Sotomayor nomination.
Many conservative Republicans oppose the Sotomayor nomination, while remaining mindful that she represents an important role model for the Latino and Hispanic populations.
However, one conservative Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham will break with his colleagues and says he’ll vote for the Supreme Court nominee.
Governor Crist in his full statement said, “As Governor, I have had the honor of appointing dozens of judges, in both the appellate and trial courts. Selecting a judge, particularly to a supreme court, is one of the weightiest and most important decisions any elected executive can make.”
“While I have not had the opportunity to meet personally with Judge Sotomayor—a crucial step in the selection process—I have reviewed and reflected upon her testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and come to the conclusion that I cannot support her appointment to the United States Supreme Court. Judge Sotomayor is worthy of respect for her many accomplishments and her remarkable story of success. However, I have strong concerns that Judge Sotomayor would not strictly and objectively construe the constitution and lacks respect for the fundamental right to keep and bear arms. For these reasons, I cannot support her appointment to the highest court in the land.”
