Several Senate Democrats on the Judiciary Committee walked out Friday morning to protest Republicans’ forcing though Judge Brett Kavanaugh without thoroughly vetting or investigating him. Kavanaugh has been credibly accused by at least three women of sexual misconduct, including violence.
Senator Kamala Harris reportedly led the walkout. She was joined by Senators Mazie Hirono, Richard Blumenthal, and Sheldon Whitehouse.
Minutes later they held a press conference:
“This hearing is a sham and Dr. Ford and the American people deserve better,” Sen. Kamala Harris said.
Sen. Hirono added, “There are still some Senators who have not indicated how they’re going to vote. I hope they’re searching their souls and are going to do the right thing.”
Several Democratic Congresswomen seated in the chamber stood up in protest of Judge Kavanaugh. They later joined the Senators at the press conference.
The Judiciary Committee will vote at 1:30 PM ET today. By all accounts they will approve Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination and send it to the full Senate for a vote. That vote could come as early as Saturday.