If settled means that it cant be re-examined, thats one thing. If settled means that it is a precedent that is entitled to respect then it is a precedent that is protected.

I have been a judge for 15 years and I've made up my own mind during all that time.

I am especially indebted to a 10th grade English teacher who encouraged me to read great works of literature.

The most important quality for a judge is open- mindedness to the arguments.

In an era where the White House is abusing power, is excusing and authorizing torture and is spying on American citizens, I find Judge [Samuel] Alito's support for an all-powerful executive branch to be genuinely troubling.

I assume that those who cling to old beliefs will be able to whisper their thoughts in the recesses of their homes, but if they repeat those views in public, they will risk being labeled as bigots and treated as such by governments, employers, and schools.

If I'm confirmed I'll be myself.