The current Supreme Court vacancy is a moment of great consequence for our country. The next Justice should understand the law and possess impartiality and balance in his views. His focus must be on justice for all Americans.

In Judge Kavanaugh’s long record of cases and opinions, time and again he’s chosen to put wealthy special interests ahead of the majority of Americans. His record clearly shows he would turn back the clock on women’s access to reproductive care while making it harder for Michigan families to get affordable health insurance. That would especially be true for those who have a pre-existing condition.

Through out his judicial career, Judge Kavanaugh has put the needs of the special interests over the rights of workers. He’s sided with polluters instead of the environment. His appointment poses a threat to Michigan’s water, Great Lakes and air.

I find one aspect of his record especially distressing. Judge Kavanaugh believes the President is above the law. In a past writing he stated:

‘Under the Constitution, the President may decline to enforce a statute that regulates private individuals when the President deems the statute unconstitutional, even if a court has held or would hold the statute constitutional.’

The democratic system of government created by the founders includes three branches of government, not solely the executive branch. We have checks and balances to make sure no one is above the law.

As Senator, it’s my job to advise on Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination for the people of Michigan.

With his record and what’s best for Michigan in mind, I will be opposing the nomination of Judge Kavanaugh.