Among the issues Murkowski discussed with Gupta were domestic violence and sexual assault, particularly against indigenous women – a major priority for the Alaska Republican.
“I felt like I was talking to a woman who had dedicated her professional life not only to trying to get to the bottom of this injustice, not just spending a little bit of money, setting up a program and walking away call it a day, ”said Murkowski,“ just to try and make a real difference. “
Gupta has the unanimous support of Senate Democrats, who praise her credentials and are quick to notice her endorsement of several law enforcement groups, including the Fraternal Order of Police, which twice backed former President Donald Trump. Gupta also receives support from Grover Norquist and Bill Kristol.
While Gupta’s nomination was never in jeopardy, Murkowski’s voice to confirm her is a surprise. Earlier in the day, Senate leader Chuck Schumer had warned that Gupta could be the first Biden nominee whose confirmation could fall along party lines.
Gupta’s bipartisan affirmation comes after Senate Republicans, including Murkowski, voted unanimously against firing Gupta from the judicial committee, which stalled 11-11.
During her comments on the floor, Murkowski said the nominee spoke to Gupta about the pressure associated with her confirmation during a meeting.
“Is this worth it?” Murkowski asked her GOP colleagues. Because this has clearly been very difficult for her as a nominee. And she paused and thought for a moment and shared how she felt called to serve in a very personal way, which I thought was impressive. ”
Gupta is currently on leave as chair of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. Previously, she was head of the civil rights department under former President Barack Obama. She will be the first woman of color to serve as Deputy Attorney General.