Burden of Proof is on Kavanaugh: NELP Renews Call for Thorough Investigation Into Sexual Assault Allegations

Following is a statement by Christine Owens, Executive Director, National Employment Law Project:

“The National Employment Law Project calls upon the Senate to ensure a fair and comprehensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation into the allegations levied by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Deborah Ramirez against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.

“An individual’s lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court has monumental consequences for everyone living and working in the United States.  Nominees have the burden of demonstrating not only their academic qualifications for the role, but their fitness to hold such a critical position.  Judge Kavanaugh is no different:  As he interviews for a lifetime appointment to the Court, Judge Kavanaugh bears the burden of proof in regards to these and any other allegations made against him.

“It is essential that the Senate treat Dr. Ford and Ms. Ramirez with respect and dignity in the investigation process.  Further, senators should note that a number of questionable statements by Judge Kavanaugh seem to contradict the documents produced from his time in the Bush administration, raising serious doubts about his credibility.

“Every member of the Senate has a responsibility to survivors of sexual violence and to the American people to ensure that Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination does not move forward until a fair and thorough investigation has been completed.”

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The National Employment Law Project is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts research and advocates on issues affecting low-wage and unemployed workers. For more about NELP, visit www.nelp.org.