WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Michael Bennet explains why he voted against the confirmation of William Barr as U.S. Attorney General.
In a statement, Bennet cited departures from “ethical norms” in the Trump Administration, and said he was concerned by Barr’s “expansive view of executive power and overly narrow view of what constitutes obstruction of justice.”
“The Senate is considering Mr. Barr’s nomination at a time when the President routinely attacks judges, flouts ethical norms, and disparages the Special Counsel investigation into his administration. Mr. Barr’s expansive view of executive power and overly narrow view of what constitutes obstruction of justice, as detailed in his unsolicited memo, are deeply concerning in this context. Mr. Barr’s record also casts serious doubt on his commitment to the Department of Justice’s mission to protect the civil rights of every American, including voting rights. I am not confident Mr. Barr will provide the leadership our nation needs, and for that reason, I opposed his nomination.”
Barr was approved Thursday by a vote of 54-45. Democrats Doug Jones (AL) and Kyrsten Sinema (AZ) were the only members of their party to vote in favor of his confirmation. Rand Paul from Kentucky was the only Republican to vote against him for the post.
