~ Lawmaker says: “She worked brilliantly with the broad cross-section of faculty and alumni, and was able to forge impressive compromises using tact, charm and her sharp, fair mind.”~

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Jane Harman (D-Venice) issued the following statement on the nomination of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court:

“Solicitor General Elena Kagan is a superb choice for the Supreme Court.

“As a member of the Harvard Law Dean's Committee during the years she served as dean, I saw her skills up close and personal.

“She worked brilliantly with the broad cross-section of faculty and alumni, and was able to forge impressive compromises using tact, charm and her sharp, fair mind.

“Her personal touch was always evident. It is a huge complement to her formidable intellect, and is one of the things that make her so impressive.

“It was Elena who convinced Jack Goldsmith, a conservative Republican, to teach at Harvard Law School. It was an inspired idea as he had recently departed under pressure from the Bush Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel.

“Elena vigorously supported Jack’s courageous commentary on the tough issues surrounding security and liberty, and under her leadership Harvard Law became a center of learning on terrorism.”