Senate Republican Leaders Support Nomination of Andrew McDonald to State Supreme Court

Hartford — State Senate Minority Leader John McKinney (R-Fairfield) and State Senate Minority Leader Pro-Tempore Len Fasano (R-North Haven) today applauded Governor Malloy’s nomination of former State Senator Andrew McDonald to the Connecticut State Supreme Court.

Senator McKinney said, “While Andrew and I have had considerable political differences over the years, I have always respected his commitment to public service and the law. He is qualified and I am confident he will uphold the state constitution and carry out his responsibilities as a Supreme Court Justice with the highest degree of impartiality and integrity.”

Senator McKinney acknowledged that some might question McDonald’s qualifications given his lack of experience as a judge, but said that is not a concern of his. Senator McKinney once served as a law clerk for Supreme Court Justice Richard Palmer, who was also appointed to the bench without prior experience as a judge. Senator McKinney said, “Justice Palmer is one of our best and most respected Supreme Court Justices. Andrew’s experience as chair of the Judiciary Committee, chief legal counsel to the governor, an attorney, and a state senator will prove valuable on the bench. My congratulations to Andrew on this distinguished honor.”

State Senator Len Fasano, the second highest ranking Republican in the Senate also welcomed news of McDonald’s nomination. While also acknowledging political differences, Sen. Fasano said, “Andrew is a good choice. He is thorough, honest, and has a tremendous respect for the law and for the State of Connecticut. I congratulate him on his nomination.”