McConnell says Obama shouldn't replace Scalia
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says the Supreme Court vacancy created by the unexpected death of Justice Antonin Scalia should not be filled until a new president takes office.
In a statement Saturday, McConnell mourned Scalia, calling him an "unwavering champion of a timeless document that unites each of us as Americans" -- the Constitution. He offered condolences to the Scalia family.
The leader of the Republican-controlled Senate sent a clear message to President Barack Obama that if he nominates a successor to Scalia, that individual is unlikely to win Senate confirmation.
McConnell says the American people should have a voice in the selection of the next justice, and the vacancy should not be filled until after a new president takes office in January 2017.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.