She cited the Code of Judicial Conduct Rule 1.2, which requires that “a judge must act at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the judiciary.” A judge “shall avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety.”
According to Murkowski, Kavanaugh failed to pass the high standard because the “appearance of impropriety has become unavoidable.” She came to that conclusion after the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week.
“I believe that Judge Kavanaugh is a good man. He’s clearly a learned judge, but in my conscience…I could not conclude that he is the right person for the court at this time,” said Murkowski.
Flake will vote yes “unless something big changed”
Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, Flake told reporters that he plans to back Kavanaugh’s appointment. He added, “Unless something big changed, I don’t see what would. But anyway, I’m glad we had a better process.”
When asked about Murkowski’s decision, Flake said he has a high regard for her colleague. According to him, “I admire her a lot and everybody had to make their own decision. I think the world of her.”
