Obama Nominates First Hispanic to Supreme Court
By VOA News
26 May 2009
U.S. President Barack Obama has nominated a female, Hispanic federal appeals court judge to replace a retiring Supreme Court justice.
Mr. Obama announced the selection of Sonia Sotomayor Tuesday at the White House, calling her an "inspiring woman." If confirmed, the 54-year-old will be the first Hispanic judge on the nine-member high court.
President Obama said Sotomayor will bring to the court knowledge, experience and the "wisdom accumulated from an inspiring life journey."
Sotomayor, who was born in New York to parents from Puerto Rico, would replace Justice David Souter, who is retiring this June after 19 years on the Supreme Court.
Appearing with the president, Sotomayor called the nomination the "most humbling honor" of her life. She also vowed to "never forget the real world consequences of [her] decisions on individuals, businesses and government."
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said the minority party will examine Sotomayor's record before voting on her confirmation, to ensure her personal views have not stopped her from making fair decisions.
Souter was nominated by Republican President George H. W. Bush, but angered many conservatives with liberal-leaning decisions, such as consistently supporting abortion rights.
The president has said he was looking for a replacement who appreciates the principles of the U.S. Constitution, and can also understand and identify with ordinary people.
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