earlier this week the senate voted to confirm michael j. truncale to the eastern district of texas and kenneth lee to the ninth circuit court of appeals seat in california t. today we'll be voting on the nomination of wendy vitter to the eastern district of louisiana. the senate is considering and confirming nominees whose records indicate that they are far outside the mainstream. i've worked very hard over a number of years now -- i guess we're in our eighth year, working with senator toomey to fill district court vacancies in pennsylvania with well-qualified, experienced judges whom i believe will be able to set aside their ideology or personal beliefs and apply the law to the cases before them, but i do not have the same confidence in many of the nominees before this body today, and especially the nominees that were considered. and i would yield if the distinguished democratic leader wants to make his remarks at this time. or i'll continue. let me start with -- let me start with several of the nominees. i'll go in the order that i mentioned befor

michael j. truncale of texas to be united states district judge for the eastern district of texas. the presiding officer: the senator from iowa. mr. grassley: this week marks national police week, which is dedicated to the brave men and women of law enforcement. police officers prioritize the safety of their neighbors and fellow citizens above their own. this week gives us an opportunity to reflect on the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement officers across the country. we should also honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our communities. it's because of the commitment and because of the bravery of police officers, firefighters, first responders, and other public safety officers that we can feel safe in our homes, places of work, and our communities. i'm particularly grateful for the men and women in blue who serve my fellow iowans. i'd also like to thank the officers that serve in washington, d.c., the capitol police for diligently every day to ensure everyone who works here and everyone who visit the capital are safe. each member of the capitol polic