Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my support of Neil Gorsuch, President Trump’s recent nomination to the Supreme Court. As with all people, Justice Gorsuch has his perspectives and philosophies on the appropriate way to interpret the Constitution that reasonable people of good faith can and do disagree on. 

Putting those ideological differences aside, however, I have been very impressed with the character testimonials of those who have worked with Justice Gorsuch throughout his career. All evidence seems to show that he is a thoughtful, kind, and humble person who has friends who respect and praise him from across the political spectrum. His judicial experience and credentials are extensive, impeccable and impressive. He has a sophisticated intellect that he has displayed in his judicial rulings that I believe will benefit the Supreme Court.

In expressing my approval of Justice Gorsuch, I also recognize that Merrick Garland (President Obama’s nominee for the same Supreme Court seat) shared many of these same qualities and would also have made an excellent Supreme Court justice if Sen. McConnell had followed precedent and tradition by giving Justice Garland a fair nomination hearing. Just as I believe that Sen. McConnell weakened our democratic norms and traditions by blocking Justice Garland’s nomination for purely political reasons, I also believe it would be wrong for Senate Democrats to do the same and block Justice Gorsuch’s nomination purely for political reasons. Regardless of who is president, the Senate should consider his or her nominees in a timely and responsible manner to ensure the stability and legitimacy of our democratic institutions.

Thus, I support Justice Gorsuch’s prompt consideration by the U.S. Senate and urge senators McConnell and Paul to give future judicial nominees, regardless of whoever is president, the same prompt and respectful consideration.

Benjamin Knoll

Associate Professor of Politics,

Centre College

Danville