Susan Collins Defends 2018 Kavanaugh Vote as Roe Reversal Shadows Tight Maine Race
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 17
Susan Collins Defends 2018 Kavanaugh Vote as Roe Reversal Shadows Tight Maine Race
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 17
Summary
Susan Collins said she does not regret her 2018 vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh, even though she is “disappointed” he later joined the 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
The Maine Republican said she judges nominees on qualifications, integrity and experience, and noted she also voted to confirm liberal justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, who opposed ending Roe.
Abortion remains a political vulnerability for Collins, one of only 2 Republican senators who support abortion rights, as Democrats argue her backing for Trump judicial nominees could weaken support among moderates and women.
The issue lands in a tight Maine Senate race against Democrat Graham Platner that is central to Democrats’ difficult bid to retake the chamber.