Mitch McConnell Knocks Elena Kagan For Arguing Against Citizens United

WASHINGTON — The Senate's top Republican is criticizing Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan for backing limits on the ability of corporations and labor unions to influence elections.

Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky says Kagan's argument in a Supreme Court case testing those restrictions was "troubling to those who cherish free speech."

In Citizens United v. FEC, the court upheld the First Amendment rights of corporations and labor unions to spend money on campaign ads. Kagan, the solicitor general, argued unsuccessfully that the government could limit such activities.

Last week, she told a senator the court wasn't deferential enough to Congress in that case.

McConnell says he needs to be convinced Kagan is committed to free speech rights.