the president's comments. >> what he did does not show independence. it shows an ability to desire the appearance of independence without actually -- without actually asserting it. >> reporter: while republicans contend the episode demonstrates gorsuch's respect for judicial independence. >> what judge gorsuch is showing here is his independent character, the fact as a judge he's going to call them as he sees them. >> that was atheena jones reporting. >> i want to get your reaction to the decision of the ninth circuit court of appeals. >> this ruling may be narrow in scope but has very, very broad ramifications in ending the chaos and confusion that president's executive order unleashed. it's a real victory for the rule of law showing courts will not be bullied by threats and personal insults and my hope is