Senate confirms Trump pick labeled ‘not qualified’ by American Bar Association

“Ms. Pitlyk defended a state law banning abortion at six weeks. She opposed the Affordable Care Act’s coverage for contraception. … Ms. Pitlyk has also filed multiple legal briefs that contain misinformation,” Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said during a floor speech.

 

Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), asked about Pitlyk during a press conference, responded, “There are many bad nominations, but it’s hard to think of one that’s as bad as hers.” 

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who is a member of the Judiciary Committee, praised Pitlyk on Wednesday, saying she would be a “a principled and fair judge for decades to come.”

“Sarah’s strong legal experience, sharp intellect, and commitment to the rule of law make her an outstanding choice for the Eastern District. I was proud to recommend her to President Trump,” he added in a statement.

Pitlyk also defended her advocacy work during her hearing before the Judiciary Committee, saying that she was part of a “long line of other people who have sat at this table who have had history in advocacy or in an issue-related advocacy or in politics and who have become very distinguished jurists.”

 

But Collins, in a statement explaining her decision to oppose Pitlyk, questioned if Trump’s pick would be able to separate her personal views from the rulings she will make as a judge. 

 

“My concern is not based on Ms. Pitlyk’s personal views on abortion or various medical decisions, which she has every right to hold. I do question, however, given her pattern of strident advocacy, whether she could put aside her personal views on these matters,” Collins added.