Orrin Hatch

Republican Orrin Hatch has represented Utah in the Senate since 1977. In his first year in the Senate, Hatch led the longest legislative filibuster in Senate history. The delay tactic was used against the Labor Law Reform Act. This helped to develop the concept of filibustering a bill by continually filing and proposing additional amendments.

Fast Facts

1. Spouse: Elaine Hatch
2. Alma mater: Brigham Young University
3. Religion: Mormon
4. Senator since 1977

Terrorist Surveillance Bill Passed

On July 9, 2008, the Senate passed a bill that grants immunity to phone companies participating in anti-terrorist wiretapping. This is a success for Hatch; he has pushed for recognition of these companies in the past, saying that they "[deserve] a round of applause and a helping hand."¹

Attorney General

It had been suggested that Hatch, who studied law at the University of Pittsburgh, might replace Alberto Gonzales as Attorney General following his resignation in the aftermath of the U.S. Attorney scandal, though the position eventually went to Michael Mukasey.

Hatch and Controversy

Hatch stirred controversy in 2006 during a speech on the floor of the Senate when he suggested that terrorists would prefer Democrats to take control of Congress over the Republicans. He has also upset members of his own party by opposing them on crucial issues such as immigration policy and stem cell research.

Musical Career

Hatch is an accomplished poet and musician who has written several published songs, frequently for other artists, and once managed the folk group "The Free Agency." One of his songs, "Heal Our Land," was performed at the 2005 inauguration of President George W. Bush.

In July of 2008, Hatch wrote a song for Ted Kennedy, to be played at the Democratic Convention. Hatch called Kennedy a "special person."²

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