Mississippian's React to Sotomayors Supreme Court Confirmation

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and President Barack Obama

The confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor as the newest Supreme Court Justice is receiving mixed reaction in Mississippi. MPB's Lawayne Childrey reports.

Second generation Mexican American, Juan Carlos Cook is an advocate for the Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance. Shortly after the Senate confirmation of Sonia Sotamayor, Cook commended President Barack Obama for making such an historic appointment.

“And for recognizing that excellence and diversity are not mutually exclusive. Judge Sotomayor’s story personifies the American dream for so many of us Latinos in this country. And finally we see ourselves represented on the highest court in the land.”

Democrats praised the 55 year old Sotomayor as a mainstream moderate. But most Republicans including Mississippi's two senators, voted against her.

“Mr. Cochran, no.”

Also voting no was Senator Roger Wicker.

“Because she has publically stated that a judge can see facts differently based on the sub group that that judge is in. Or based on personal empathy because of past experiences. That is not what is called for under the equal protection clause of the constitution. To me that’s not equal justice under the law.”
Ironically, Senator Thad Cochran voted to confirm Sotomayor to her seat on the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals 11 years ago. For MPB News, I'm Lawayne Childrey.