Essay Problem
Conservative Justice Antonin Scalia passed away suddenly in February 2016. Pres. Obama appointed Judge Merrick Garland as his replacement. Republican Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell stated no Obama nominee would get a hearing in the Senate, that the people would decide Scalia's successor with the results of the 2016 presidential election. Judge Gorsuch was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court by Pres. Trump in January 2017, a few weeks after taking office. This confirmation hearing began in the Senate Judiciary Committee in March, 2017.
Watch the opening remarks of Judge Neil Gorsuch's confirmation hearing to the U.S. Supreme Court (watch the first hour and 10 minutes minimum).
Complete this essay: Summarize the remarks and concerns from Sen. Grassley through Sen. Durbin (approximately one hour and ten minutes). What does each senator say in terms of judicial philosophy, nomination and confirmation process, and separation of powers, among other issues, including those pertaining to Judge Gorsuch's record. How does the partisan and ideological divide show itself? Do you think senators already knew how they would vote on his confirmation?
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.