A sampling of reaction from liberal or Democratic interest groups on the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the Supreme Court:
Nan Aron, president of the Alliance for Justice:
"President Obama has nominated a highly qualified candidate with a compelling personal story and outstanding educational credentials. The president is making history by nominating the first Latina to the Supreme Court. Judge Sotomayor has more federal judicial experience than any justice nominated to the Supreme Court in the past 100 years.
"Judges make a huge difference in our lives. Courts protect our air and water, hold corporations accountable, ensure equal opportunity and fair pay, and safeguard our personal freedoms.
"This nomination shows that President Obama is appointing judges who understand that the role of the courts is to give everyone a chance to be heard, to stand up for their rights, and get justice."
Michael Keegan, president of People for the American Way:
"President Obama has made a superb choice. Judge Sotomayor has one of the sharpest intellects on the federal bench. She’s shown that she’ll bring an open mind to the Court and rule on each case according to its particular merits. Her nomination is a very positive step towards bringing diversity to our highest Court.
“President Obama used this opportunity to do exactly what he promised in last year’s election—to select a person who has demonstrated an abiding commitment to core constitutional values of justice, opportunity, and equality under the law. He has named someone who understands the impact that the law has on the everyday lives of ordinary Americans.
“This nomination is good news for people who care about the future of our rights and liberties. Now it’s up to our Senators to avoid the distraction of attacks from the far right and work for a smooth, fair confirmation process. We urge them to confirm Judge Sotomayor with all deliberate speed."
Ira Forman, CEO of the National Jewish Democratic Council:
"With the selection of Sotomayor, Obama has shown sound judgment and profound respect for our nation’s highest court by selecting an individual who has strong credentials, is highly regarded, and is committed to our constitutional values, rights, and liberties.
"We are also proud of Obama’s commitment to have the Supreme Court reflect America’s rich and diverse population, by selecting the first Hispanic justice. More importantly, the President’s nominee has the intellectual capacity and real world experience to be a world class justice."
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