Sonia Sotomayor Supreme Court nomination 2009, David Souter's retirement plans were leaked to the media, and Sonia Sotomayor received early attention as a possible nominee for the seat to be vacated in June 2009. On May 13, 2009, the Associated Press reported that President Obama was considering Sotomayor, among others, for possible appointment to the United States Supreme Court. On May 26, 2009, Obama announced that he would nominate Sotomayor to the court, with her formal nomination following on June 1. After her confirmation, Sotomayor became the Supreme Court's first Latina justice. The Appointments Clause of Article Two of the United States Constitution requires the
Sonia Sotomayor Supreme Court nomination no speech can fully capture my joy in this moment." Sotomayor was formally invested in the Court on September 8, 2009, in a special session. Former President George H. W. Bush defended Sotomayor and blasted former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich and conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh for accusing her of being racist, calling it "not fair" and "not right". Bush also lauded Sotomayor for her "distinguished record on the bench" and stated that she was entitled to a fair hearing. Former First Lady Laura Bush stated that Sotomayor was an "interesting pick" and believes that Sotomayor is a