Washington, DC—U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) released the following statement in regards to his meeting today with U.S. Supreme Court Nominee Solicitor General Elena Kagan:

This afternoon, I had the chance to meet with Elena Kagan, President’s Obama’s nominee to serve on the Supreme Court. We had a thoughtful discussion and I was impressed with her intellect and independence.

A lifetime of public service and legal experience has contributed to Elena Kagan’s widely recognized qualifications. She has served as a professor and Dean at one of the nation’s leading law schools, a White House and Senate aide, and has represented the government as the nation’s Solicitor General. I was proud to join members of both parties to confirm her to that position last year.

The Judiciary Committee is continuing their work, including looking over the historic number of documents and records on this nominee.

I do not believe that decisions on Supreme Court appointments should be based on political ideology.  I voted for both of President Bush’s nominees and look to the rating of the American Bar Association, which has given this nominee their highest possible rating. It is clear from our meeting that Elena Kagan is in the judicial mainstream and has the judgment to serve on the United States Supreme Court.

While I will hold my final decision until the Judiciary Committee completes their work, it is clear Elena Kagan has what it takes to serve on the high Court and I am leaning toward supporting her nomination.

###