The Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) has officially issued its support behind Judge Merrick Garland's nomination to the Supreme Court.

The organization recently announced it has formally sent an endorsement letter to Sens. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, respectively.

Garland Passes With Flying Colors

"Based on our review, it is clear that Chief Judge Garland is well qualified to serve on the United States Supreme Court," said HNBA National President Robert Maldonado. "He possesses the experience, temperament, and high degree of professionalism required to distinguish himself as a Justice on the Court. His strong record as a prosecutor, judge and private sector lawyer demonstrates a high level of judgment, intellect and integrity."

Among the factors known to be among the considerations viewed by HNBA organizers in deciding rather or not to render an endorsement are integrity, character and professional reputation; litigation, adjudicative and other professional experience; scholarship; judicial temperament; demonstrated commitment to the concept of equal opportunity and equal justice under law.

"The HNBA has completed its judicial due diligence review process of Chief Judge Garland's judicial record, and puts its support behind his nomination," added Robert Raben, chair of the HNBA Judicial Endorsement Committee. "As an institution entrusted with representing the interests of the Hispanic legal community, we have done our job. Now it is time for the Senate to do theirs."

GOP Refuses to Hold Vote

After being nominated by President Barack Obama to fill the spot left by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, Garland's nomination has been stalled by a Republican led Congress that has vowed not to so much as give his nomination a floor vote.

With Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton all but certain to face off in November's general election as the nominees of their respective parties, some insiders have speculated Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., might be more prone to grant Garland a vote amid fears that an even less favorable choice could emerge if Clinton proves to be the victor.

………………………………………………………………..
Related