Passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia Leaves Vacancy in Court

February 13, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, with the passing of Justice Antonin Scalia, the U.S. Supreme Court lost a conservative justice known for his strict constructionist approach to interpreting the Constitution. LULAC National President Roger C. Rocha, Jr. issued the following statement:

"LULAC offers its condolences to his family and friends," said LULAC National President Roger C. Rocha, Jr. "With regards to moving forward, we call upon the U.S. Senate to work with President Obama to honor their constitutional duty to fill the vacancy to the country's highest bench as soon as possible. The American people deserve to have a Supreme Court of 9 members to resolve constitutional matters critical to this country. With regard to the critical issues currently before the court, we expect the Supreme Court to stay on schedule. Specific to the issues that impact Latinos, such as the president's administrative actions, DAPA and DACA, we expect the Supreme Court to issue a decision on the merits at the earliest possible time."

LULAC remains confident that once the issues are considered by the Supreme Court, the President action's will be deemed constitutional. Such a decision would implement programs freeing millions of people from living in the shadows.

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.