Kavanaugh's lengthy paper trail becomes flashpoint

WASHINGTON (AP) - Judge Brett Kavanaugh has a long record of judicial and executive branch service. It’s part of what recommends him as President Donald Trump’s nominee to the Supreme Court. And it’s also part of the problem in getting him confirmed by the Senate.

Democrats are demanding to see the conservative appellate court judge’s lengthy paper trail before they even start meeting with him, let alone consider casting their votes. They want to know more about the nominee for a lifetime appointment that could shift the court rightward and call into question landmark cases, including Roe v. Wade.

The paper chase is turning the vetting process into a high-stakes political battle. Republicans want a speedy confirmation before the November midterm election. But the Democratic search for documents could complicate that timeline.