Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) will vote to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
"After hearing more than 30 hours of testimony from Judge Kavanaugh earlier this month, I was prepared to support his nomination based on his view of the law and his record as a judge. In fact, I commented at the time that had he been nominated in another era, he would have likely received 90+ votes," Flake released in a statement Thursday morning. "When Dr. Ford’s allegations against Judge Kavanaugh surfaced two weeks ago, I insisted that she be allowed to testify before the committee moved to a vote. Yesterday, we heard compelling testimony from Dr. Ford, as well as a persuasive response from Judge Kavanaugh. I wish that I could express the confidence that some of my colleagues have conveyed about what either did or did not happen in the early 1980s, but I left the hearing yesterday with as much doubt as certainty."
"What I do know is that our system of justice affords a presumption of innocence to the accused, absent corroborating evidence. That is what binds us to the rule of law. While some may argue that a different standard should apply regarding the Senate’s advice and consent responsibilities, I believe that the constitution’s provisions of fairness and due process apply here as well," he continued. "I will vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh.”
Leaving Capitol Hill last Thursday night, Flake said he was conflicted.
I spoke to @JeffFlake as he was leaving the Capitol.
— Kasie Hunt (@kasie) September 28, 2018
He seemed visibly torn, talking about his struggle to decide what to do.
All eyes will be on him tomorrow morning in the committee before this would go to the full Senate.
This is a developing story, stay tuned for updates.