March 22, 2017

United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

 Re:  Oppose Judge Neil M. Gorsuch for Supreme Court of the United States

Dear Senator,

The League of Conservation Voters (LCV) works to turn environmental values into national, state and local priorities. Each year, LCV publishes the National Environmental Scorecard, which details the voting records of members of Congress on environmental legislation. The Scorecard is distributed to LCV members, concerned voters nationwide, and the media.

LCV urges you to oppose the confirmation of Judge Neil M. Gorsuch to a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court of the United States. Justices on the Supreme Court have an immense responsibility to protect the rights of the American people and to interpret the constitution without personal ideological influence. In the coming decade, the Supreme Court will tackle critical issues relating to voting rights, the environment, women’s health, civil liberties, and more. Their decisions will have lasting impacts for generations to come. The Supreme Court is the last bastion of justice for the American people, and it is their responsibility to ensure that no powerful interests are above the law.

Judge Gorsuch’s record reflects support for corporations and the most powerful at the expense of the public interest. His stance on the “Chevron doctrine” and demonstrated hostility towards the regulatory power of federal agencies could undermine the ability of the United States Environmental Protection Agency to enforce community safeguards against corporate polluters. Judge Gorsuch also supported a decision to dismiss a claim that would have protected public lands in Wilderness Society v. Kane County.  In addition, with trust in public institutions at an all-time low, it has never been more important to confirm a Supreme Court Justice who will be an independent check on the Executive Branch. In his public appearances to date, Judge Gorsuch has shown no willingness to do that.

For all those who want to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and leave a safer planet for future generations, and for the rights of workers, women, immigrants, the disabled, the LGBTQ community, and others, we strongly urge you to oppose the confirmation of Judge Neil M. Gorsuch to the Supreme Court of the United States. We will strongly consider including this vote in our 2017 Scorecard. If you need more information, please call my office at (202)785-8683 and ask to speak with a member of our Government Relations team.

Sincerely,

Gene Karpinski
President