WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito said Tuesday she will oppose President Obama's nomination of Loretta Lynch as attorney general.
“While I have great personal and professional respect for Loretta Lynch and enjoyed meeting her last week, her views about the legality of President Obama's executive actions are concerning," Capito (R-W.Va.) said in a statement. "The attorney general should serve as the independent chief legal officer for the nation, implementing laws passed by Congress and pushing back when the executive branch overreaches.
"The Obama Administration has a record of overstepping its legal authority on immigration, in implementing the Affordable Care Act and in imposing anti-energy regulations.
"Despite her qualifications, I am not confident that Loretta Lynch will exercise the independence needed to stand up for the proper separation of powers, and I will not support her nomination.”
Since 2010, Lynch, 55, has been the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. She previously held the position from 1999−2001.
Obama nominated her to succeed Eric Holder as attorney general last fall. Last month, the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmed her appointment.
Capito opposes Lynch nomination as AG
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