FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 1, 2005

Isakson Statement on Retirement of Sandra Day O’Connor

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) today issued the following statement on the announcement that Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor will retire:

“I join with President Bush and my Senate colleagues in congratulating Justice Sandra Day O’Connor on her retirement and in celebrating her distinguished service to our nation. She made history when she was appointed by President Reagan in 1981 as the first woman ever named to our nation’s highest court. Throughout her tenure, she has served ably and with a steady hand through some of our nation’s toughest legal controversies.

“I am grateful to Justice O’Connor for her willingness to remain on the Court until her successor is nominated and confirmed. It is critical to have all nine seats on the Supreme Court filled at all times.

“I look forward to considering the President’s nominee deliberatively, fairly and expeditiously. I will not apply any kind of litmus test for the nominee, and I am hopeful my Senate colleagues will share my goal of confirming a nominee before the new Supreme Court term begins in October.”