Dear Senator,

I am writing this letter in opposition of the nomination of Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court. While I am concerned with the fact that his record betrays an extremely narrow interpretation of the laws intended to protect working people; of graver concern are his attitudes about Executive power. The views he has expressed in this area, on the record, are frankly beyond the pale. In my view, a vote to confirm Judge Alito will also be a vote that marginalizes the Legislative branch— that’s you! —and contributes to the erosion of the separation of powers and the checks and balances required for just governance.

On the issue of workers rights, I understand you have received the AFL-CIO’s review of Judge Alito’s record. I trust that you have reviewed this information and are aware of the concerns. I will just echo what AFL-CIO President John Sweeny wrote in his letter to you: that Alito has shown “a disturbing tendency to take an extremely narrow and restrictive view of laws that protect workers’ rights.”

Alito himself is on the record with his views of executive power. He has espoused the “theory of the Unitary Executive,” (i.e.: extreme deference to the executive branch); he has supported absolute immunity for government officials in cases involving illegal wiretaps and warrantless FBI video surveillance; and, he has supported the use of Presidential “signing statements” to dictate the interpretation of laws with disregard to Congressional intent.

These issues cut to the core of the lives of American working people, and threaten the very nature of our democracy. They are of such importance I strongly urge you to vote against the Alito nomination. Furthermore, I would view a failure to vote to sustain a filibuster— if there should be one —as an affront to our democratic traditions; and a vote in favor of the so-called “nuclear option” to kill a filibuster as a hostile attack on the foundations of our democracy, and ultimately, the voice of The People in government.

I will appreciate a response from you in this matter; most importantly regarding your views on the separation of powers, checks and balances, and the “nuclear option.” Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Your Constituent Montag