The Judicial Crisis Network released an ad Friday in support of Judge Brett Kavanaugh, highlighting an array of reporters and lawmakers lauding his nomination for the Supreme Court.
President Donald Trump announced Kavanaugh on Monday as his pick to replace retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy, praising his "impeccable credentials, unsurpassed qualifications, and a proven commitment to equal justice under the law."
"Mr. President, I am grateful to you, and I'm humbled by your confidence in me," Kavanugh said on Monday. "My judicial philosophy is straightforward. A judge must be independent."
MSNBC's Chuck Todd called him "very confirmable," NPR legal affairs reporter Nina Totenberg said he was a "smart choice," and CNN's Dana Bash said it would be difficult for red-state Democrats to vote against him. Conservatives have also praised Kavanaugh for his adherence to the Constitution as a jurist.
All 34 of Kavanaugh's former clerks "not prohibited by their current or pending employment" signed an endorsement letter of Kavanaugh, and they included Republicans, Democrats and independents. Editorial boards from newspapers in blue states have also praised his credentials.
Kavanaugh has served for 12 years on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. Prior to that, he worked in the George W. Bush administration in a variety of positions, including staff secretary.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) said he would fight Kavanaugh's confirmation with all his strength, but he will have to swing at least one Republican to his ranks and not lose any Democratic votes. Sen. Joe Manchin (D., W. Va.) said Kavanaugh has "all the right qualities" to be seated on the Supreme Court.
Manchin and Democratic Sens. Heidi Heitkamp (N.D.) and Joe Donnelly (Ind.) voted for Trump's first nominee for the Supreme Court last year, Neil Gorsuch.