Just a few weeks ago, Rob Portman doubled down on Republicans’ pledge to obstruct the constitutional process by saying that not only would he oppose hearings or votes on a Supreme Court nominee, but he would not even meet with the nominee. After weeks of polls, showing Ohioans want the Supreme Court vacancy filled, Portman is trying to spin his indefensible position.
But, don’t be fooled by his blatant political spin: Portman’s position hasn’t changed at all.
Portman is still standing firm with his fellow Republicans in their plan to ignore their constitutional duty by refusing to hold hearings or votes on Judge Garland. Portman was clear that he won’t meet with Garland to evaluate his credentials, but rather to explain to his face why he’s putting politics above his nomination. Ouch.
“Rob Portman’s latest comments are just more political spin from someone who is seeing his reelection prospects plummet by the minute,” said Lauren Passalacqua, DSCC National Press Secretary. “Senator Portman is still choosing unprecedented constitutional obstruction over the interests of Ohioans, and voters will turn out in November to elect a Senator who will actually do their job.”
