Is Kavanaugh 'the best we can do?' asks Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein
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In her opening statement for the Senate Judiciary Committee's hearing regarding a sexual assault allegation against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) reminded viewers that the proceedings are not a scrutiny of his accuser, but rather an evaluation of his credentials. Even if not proven beyond doubt, she suggested, allegations from Christine Blasey Ford bring Kavanaugh's character into question enough to potentially disqualify him from the Supreme Court.
"This is not a trial of Dr. Ford," said Feinstein. "It's a job interview for Judge Kavanaugh." She additionally outlined two other allegations against Kavanaugh, from women who are not testifying Thursday. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) scolded Feinstein for bringing them up, insisting the hearing focus only on the allegations from Ford.
Senate Republicans have hired Arizona prosecutor Rachel Mitchell to question Ford on their behalf, in part because the GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee are all men. "We are here for one reason," said Feinstein, "to determine whether Judge Kavanaugh should be elevated to one of the most powerful positions in our country ... Is Brett Kavanaugh who we want on the most prestigious court in our country? Is he the best we can do?" Watch the moment below, via CBS News. Summer Meza
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Summer Meza has worked at The Week since 2018, serving as a staff writer, a news writer and currently the deputy editor. As a proud news generalist, she edits everything from political punditry and science news to personal finance advice and film reviews. Summer has previously written for Newsweek and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, covering national politics, transportation and the cannabis industry.
