WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), spoke on the Senate floor Thursday night to urge his colleagues to immediately bring Loretta Lynch’s nomination to the floor for a confirmation vote to be the next Attorney General of the United States. Video of his remarks is available here.

“Refusing to allow a confirmation vote on Loretta Lynch’s nomination to be the next Attorney General is pure politics and unprecedented Republican obstructionism. It’s just not fair. Loretta Lynch is impressive and very well qualified to be the next Attorney General. The Senate has confirmed her, unanimously, twice. It is unfair to Ms. Lynch, who has waiting longer than the previous five Attorney Generals- combined. It’s unfair to the hardworking employees of the Department of Justice, who work every day to keep Americans safe from harm; and it’s unfair to the President of the United States, who deserves to have his team in place. We have a responsibility to vote on his nominations.

“The Senate may be known for taking things slowly, but we really can debate legislation and nominations at the same time. To suggest otherwise is a hollow excuse; we’ve voted on six executive nominees in the past week.

“Loretta Lynch’s few detractors have had ample time to come to the Senate floor and make their case to fellow Senators. Republicans control the agenda in the Senate. If Senators would like to vote against Mrs. Lynch it is their prerogative, but at least allow a vote.”

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