Merkley, Wyden welcome reopening of Kavanaugh FBI investigation

Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, D-Ore., released the following statements on the reopening of the FBI investigation into Judge Brett Kavanaugh:

Merkley:

“Reopening the FBI investigation is a necessary and appropriate step. In fact, it’s the bare minimum we should expect when a Supreme Court candidate is faced with such serious, disturbing, and credible charges.

“All three of Judge Kavanaugh’s accusers have called for a reopened FBI investigation, and survivors across this nation are looking to the Senate to see what message we send to them.

“Additionally, the Senate Judiciary Committee should hear under oath from Mark Judge and other witnesses and accusers.

“This isn’t about process, it’s about substance. The Senate needs to take these claims seriously enough to have a legitimate investigation–one that is probing and thorough, not just a show to check a box.”

Wyden:

“An FBI investigation of the multiple sexual assault allegations against Brett Kavanaugh is the absolute minimum needed to vet a nominee for a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court.”

“The Senate has no duty more important than providing advice and consent on Supreme Court nominations, and the American people expect the two parties to work together to accomplish that task.

I applaud Senator Flake and my Democratic colleagues on the Judiciary Committee for pressuring Republican leaders to take this basic step toward getting to the bottom of the allegations, and assessing Kavanaugh’s suitability for the Supreme Court.”