WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) plans to speak on the Senate floor at approximately 3:30 today in support of Judge Leslie Southwick for the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The American Bar Association declared Southwick, who served on the Mississippi Court of Appeals, as unanimously “well-qualified.”
Senate Democrats and special interest groups have raised unfounded opposition to the nomination. The efficiency and efficacy of the court are negatively affected by delaying action to permanently fill this seat, which has been vacant since 2004 and is considered a judicial emergency by the Federal Judiciary.
By stressing to the Senate Southwick’s eminent qualifications and impeccable background, Senator Cochran hopes to shore up support for the nomination.
