Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) placed a "hold" on the confirmation of Richard E. Hoagland as the next U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). In blocking the Hoagland nomination, Sen. Menendez stressed that, "as a leader and defender of democracy, it is our nation's responsibility to speak out against injustice and support equality and human rights. But if the Bush Administration continues to refuse to acknowledge the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide, then there is certainly cause for great alarm, which is why I am placing a hold on this nominee." He added that, "I will continue to work with my colleagues in the United States Senate to make strides toward ensuring that all people, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity, receive protection from policies of discrimination and hate that lead to genocide."