WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), released the following statement praising James Cole’s Senate confirmation as Deputy Attorney General of the United States. He was confirmed by a vote of 55-42

“I am proud that the Senate finally acted today to confirm Jim Cole as Deputy Attorney General.  Our nation’s fight against al-Qaeda and the Taliban will be strengthened with Mr. Cole’s expertise and experience working to help bring terrorists to justice.  The President relies on the Deputy Attorney General’s guidance when using the lawful tools at his disposal to protect the American people and prosecute terrorists and President Obama will be well served by Mr. Cole. He is the best person for this critically important job, which he has proven through a career of distinguished and principled public service, including 13 years at the Department of Justice.

“Jim Cole should have been confirmed as Deputy Attorney General nearly a year ago. He long has had support from Democrats and Republicans because of his nonpartisan, sound legal temperament. In the many years I have known and worked with him, Mr. Cole has consistently shown that he places policy ahead of politics and he evaluates each case and matter that comes before him based on the facts and the law.”

Jim Cole has served as Deputy Attorney General under a recess appointment, and his appointment would have expired at the end of the year.  Senate confirmation allows him to continue to serve in the post at the pleasure of President Obama.

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