By Alabama Public Radio
Washington, D.C. – Republican Senators Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions both released statements Monday citing Alito's vast experience as a judge and conservative judicial philosophy and giving him a warmer reception than they did for President Bush's previous pick, Harriet Miers. She withdrew her nomination last week. Shelby's statement cited Alito's ``long and distinguished career of public service.'' Shelby says he hopes the nomination process would be as civil as it was for the last successful nominee, new Chief Justice John Roberts.