Today the Senate voted 63-37 to confirm Solicitor General Elena Kagan as the next Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. For the first time in history the court will have three sitting female justices — a critical mass that will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the struggle for women’s equality. NOW officially endorsed Kagan at the close of her confirmation hearings.
Kagan is the second woman appointed to the high court by President Barack Obama, who also appointed Justice Sonia Sotomayor in 2009. Kagan will join Sotomayor and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the bench when the Supreme Court begins a new term this October.
“NOW eagerly anticipates three brilliant women justices individually and collectively making their mark on a Supreme Court long dominated by men, while making decisions that greatly impact the lives of everyday people,” said NOW President Terry O’Neill. “This is more than a symbolic, inspiring achievement for women — it will be a genuine victory for every woman and girl who benefits from Elena Kagan’s years of service on the high court.”
Once sworn in, Justice Elena Kagan will fill the seat vacated by retiring Justice John Paul Stevens. Justice Stevens’ tenure on the court was marked by a strong commitment to protecting women’s rights under the law. Said O’Neill: “NOW looks forward to Kagan following in Justice Stevens’ footsteps and serving as a champion for the rights of women, people of color, and all other disadvantaged individuals.”
Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, on the Confirmation of U.S. Solicitor General Elena Kagan to the U.S. Supreme Court
“Planned Parenthood applauds U.S. Solicitor General Elena Kagan’s confirmation as the newest associate justice to the U.S. Supreme Court. We join with millions of women and men across the country in welcoming her appointment to the highest court in the land.
“General Kagan is a distinguished lawyer and legal scholar with a reputation for fairness and thoughtfulness and a commitment to conscientious deliberation, and equal justice under the law. During her testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, General Kagan demonstrated respect for precedent and protecting individual liberties.
“General Kagan will bring a wealth of experience to the Supreme Court. She has distinguished herself, serving as a clerk to Associate Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first woman dean of Harvard Law School, and as Solicitor General of the United States. She has an impressive understanding of the law and deep respect for the impact of the court’s decisions on the lives of Americans of every walk of life. We are confident that General Kagan will be a fine addition to the U.S. Supreme Court.”
The United States Senate made history today with its bipartisan vote to confirm Elena Kagan, an indisputably well-qualified nominee, to serve as a Justice on the Supreme Court.
Elena Kagan will be a superb justice. Her presence on our highest court will maintain and strengthen our nation’s commitment to equal justice and privacy, and to fairness for women, people of color, workers, seniors and every person who may face discrimination.
This appointment is an important milestone in our journey toward equal rights for women. When she is sworn in, for the first time in history, three women will serve together on our highest court. This confirmation brings us closer to the day when it is no longer surprising to see a woman on the Supreme Court or in other positions of power. Our nation will be stronger as a result.”
