WASHINGTON, D. C. -- U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL) issued the following statement upon learning of President Bush’s nomination of Judge John G. Roberts, Jr. to be Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court:

“I am pleased with President Bush’s decision to nominate Judge Roberts to be Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Judge Roberts has a long and distinguished career of public service, serving our country in a number of positions, including his most recent tenure on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. His experience and demonstrated leadership make him a strong candidate to be Chief Justice of the highest court in the land.”

“I believe the President’s decision to swiftly select a Chief Justice nominee serves the nation well. Our country has a number of challenges ahead of us, and having a Chief Justice in place when the Supreme Court reconvenes in October is extremely important. I am also hopeful that the President will move quickly to announce another nominee for associate justice.”

“As we move forward, I intend to carefully review Judge Roberts’ judicial philosophy and qualifications for this important position. I look forward to the confirmation process, and I am hopeful that the Senate will operate in a fair manner and afford him an up-or-down vote.”

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