This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
A vote in the U.S. Senate is expected soon on judicial nominee Goodwin Liu.
As a student at Berkeley Law, I have had the pleasure of taking both large and small classes with Professor Liu. I am continually impressed by his kindness, calm demeanor and willingness to listen to the views of his students.
More important, I have witnessed time and again Liu's ability to navigate the most challenging and complex legal issues with ease, approaching a problem from all angles and considering the value and impact of an array of potential solutions. Liu has challenged me to think beyond my predetermined values and beliefs, and to have a more complete and critical understanding of the Constitution.
Liu's intellect is certainly unmatched, but just as important is how he applies that intellect fairly and evenly considering the most difficult problems facing our nation.
I am surprised to read news accounts of Republican threats to filibuster Liu's nomination. Sens. Mike Lee and Orrin Hatch have both previously stated that they oppose the use of a filibuster for judicial nominees. I call on Hatch and Lee to stand by their word and to vote for cloture on this outstanding nominee.
Audrey Barron
Sandy