Meaning: The quote "We've been following Judge Alito's career over the last 15 years, while he's been on the Court of Appeals" by Jay Sekulow, a lawyer, reflects a long-standing interest and observation of Judge Alito's professional trajectory within the judicial system. This remark is significant within the context of legal and political discussions, particularly during the time when Judge Samuel Alito was being considered for a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Samuel Alito, who was nominated by President George W. Bush, served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit before being nominated to the Supreme Court in 2005. Throughout his tenure on the Court of Appeals, Alito's decisions, judicial philosophy, and legal opinions would have been closely scrutinized by legal experts, scholars, and individuals with an interest in the federal judiciary. Jay Sekulow's quote suggests that he and others had been closely tracking Judge Alito's judicial career and the impact of his decisions over a significant period of time.

The quote also reflects the broader significance of judicial appointments and the impact of judges on the legal system. Federal judges, especially those serving on the appellate courts and the Supreme Court, hold considerable power in shaping and interpreting the law. Their decisions have a lasting impact on individual rights, societal norms, and the overall legal framework of the country. As such, the scrutiny and attention given to judges' careers, especially those with potential for higher office, are crucial in understanding their judicial philosophies and potential impact on the legal landscape.

Jay Sekulow, as a prominent lawyer and legal commentator, likely made this statement to emphasize the importance of carefully monitoring and evaluating judicial nominees. Given the potential for Judge Alito to ascend to the highest court in the land, it is understandable that legal experts and commentators like Sekulow would have been invested in following Alito's career and legal rulings.

Furthermore, the quote also highlights the enduring nature of judicial appointments and the long-term implications of these nominations. Judge Alito's career spanned 15 years on the Court of Appeals, during which time his decisions would have influenced numerous legal cases and issues. This longevity underscores the significance of judicial appointments and the need for a thorough understanding of a nominee's record and judicial philosophy before confirming them to a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court.

In conclusion, Jay Sekulow's quote encapsulates the enduring interest and scrutiny surrounding Judge Samuel Alito's judicial career, particularly during his time on the Court of Appeals and leading up to his nomination to the Supreme Court. It underscores the importance of closely monitoring judicial nominees and the lasting impact of their decisions on the legal system. This quote serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of judicial appointments and the need for careful consideration of nominees' qualifications and judicial philosophies.