Statement From Democratic Senate Leader Harry Reid
There is good news for every American in this agreement. The so-called "nuclear option" is off the table. This is a
significant victory for our country, for democracy, and for all Americans. Checks and balances in our government have
been preserved.
The integrity of future Supreme Courts has been protected from the undue influences of a vocal, radical faction of the
right that is completely out of step with mainstream America. That was the intent of the Republican "nuclear option"
from the beginning. Tonight, the Senate has worked its will on behalf of reason, responsibility and the greater good.
We have sent President George Bush, Vice President Dick Cheney and the radical arm of the Republican base an undeniable
message: Abuse of power will not be tolerated, and attempts to trample the Constitution and grab absolute control are
over. We are a separate and equal branch of government. That is our founding fathers¹ vision, and one we hold dear.
I offered Senator Frist several options similar to this compromise, and while he was not able to agree, I am pleased
that some responsible Republicans and my colleagues were able to put aside there differences and work from the center. I
do not support several of the judges that have been agreed to because their views and records display judicial activism
that jeopardize individual rights and freedoms. But other troublesome nominees have been turned down. And, most
importantly, the U.S. Senate retains the checks and balances to ensure all voices are heard in our democracy and the
Supreme Court make-up cannot be decided by a simple majority.
I am grateful to my colleagues who brokered this deal. Now, we can move beyond this time-consuming process that has
deteriorated the comity of this great institution. I am hopeful that we can quickly turn to work on the people's
business. We need to ensure our troops have the resources they need to fight in Iraq and that Americans are free from
terrorism. We need to protect retiree's pensions and long-term security. We need to expand health care opportunities for
all families. We need to address rising gasoline prices and energy independence. And we need to restore fiscal
responsibility and rebuild our economy so that it lifts all American workers. That is our reform agenda, the people's
reform agenda. Together, we can get the job done.
ENDS