Senate Judiciary ranking member Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) complained Wednesday afternoon that Democrats are moving too quickly to confirm Eric Holder as the next attorney general.

“It seems to me not realistic or fair to begin hearings before Jan. 26,” Specter said, adding that he needs “adequate time to prepare” before confirmation proceedings can begin.

The Pennsylvania Republican listed off numerous items that Holder must first address, including attorney-client privilege and reporters’ shield law, as well as his involvement in then-President Bill Clinton’s controversial pardon of Marc Rich.

Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) said earlier in the week that he would be coordinating the confirmation hearings with Specter. Leahy announced that hearings would begin on Jan. 8.

“We need to be sure the attorney general does not bend his views in any way that is partisan or political. There are many other matters that warrant inquiry,” Specter said.