National Religious Broadcasters support Congressional leaders in their resolve to allow the American people to have a voice at the ballot box before anyone is considered to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court following last month's passing of Justice Antonin Scalia, leaders said today in response to President Barack Obama's nomination of Judge Merrick Garland.

"Let us remember that Justice Scalia was an exceptional jurist with unwavering commitment to the integrity of the United States Constitution," stated Dr. Jerry A. Johnson, President & CEO of NRB. "We know the poor track record of the Obama Administration on respect for freedom and the rule of law.  The American people should at least have a chance to vote in November before this President gets to place a third and likely generational-altering pick on the Court."

Last month in a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Dr. Johnson assured him the NRB would stand with him in his decision to wait on consideration of any Scalia successor until after the November elections.  In that letter, Dr. Johnson declared:

The Constitution that Justice Scalia fought for decades to uphold provides the President the power to nominate judges and the Senate the power of advice and consent. This is a key principle in the separation of powers between the branches of our nation's government. Unfortunately, America's current President has shown little restraint in asserting authority in areas properly belonging to other federal branches, the states, or the people themselves. I urge you to do all that you can to prevent the President from attempting to work around the will of the Legislative Branch in this matter. 

Moreover, Dr. Johnson noted, "The American people began to vote for change in 2014 by giving a new party control of the chamber, and the people will have a chance to speak again in the months ahead essentially on the fate of all three branches of government."

The full text of Dr. Johnson's letter to Leader McConnell is here. Also, a letter signed by Dr. Johnson and more than 100 other leaders committed "to make clear to the American people what is at stake and to rally our fellow citizens to the cause of saving the Constitution" is here.

About NRB
The National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) is a non-partisan, international association of Christian communicators whose member organizations represent millions of listeners, viewers, and readers. Our mission is to advance biblical truth; to promote media excellence; and to defend free speech. In addition to promoting standards of excellence, integrity, and accountability, NRB provides networking, educational, ministry, and fellowship opportunities for its members. Learn more atwww.nrb.org. 

About the Convention
The annual NRB International Christian Media Convention is the largest nationally and internationally recognized event dedicated solely to assist those in the field of Christian communications. The dynamic Exposition consists of around 200 companies and is an active marketplace for those seeking tools and services to expand their organizations. The next Convention will be held at the Orlando World Marriott in Orlando, FL, February 27-March 2, 2017. For more information, go to www.nrbconvention.org.