Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Senators Daniel K. Akaka and Daniel K. Inouye issued statements today in response to a letter issued by two Republican Senators criticizing the selection of Maui as this year's location for an upcoming annual U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit judicial conference. 

Senator Akaka said: "Hawaii falls squarely under the jurisdiction of the Ninth Circuit and legal issues in Hawaii deserve as much of a spotlight as any other state or territory in the circuit.  The judges who issue powerful decisions that affect us all must get to know our people, our environment, and our traditions, so I am pleased Supreme Court Justices Kennedy and Alito are scheduled to join judges from the Ninth Circuit and other western jurisdictions at the conference.  A conference held within the circuit of jurisdiction is completely appropriate.  Hawaii is so much more than a vacation spot, it's our home, and we should be treated like any other state."

Senator Inouye said: "Senator Grassley and Senator Sessions criticism of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit judicial conference on Maui is unjustified.  My Republican colleagues are quick to link the unique leisure and cultural opportunities available in Hawaii with an inability to do the very serious work of the court.  The Ninth Circuit is by far the largest in the nation and includes the state of Hawaii and it is the practice of every appeals court to hold their annual conference in a city within their jurisdiction.  This conference is no different.  I resent the implication that no serious discussion can take place in Hawaii.  We are much more than sunsets and beautiful beaches, as evidenced by Hawaii's hosting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in November."