U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nominations of five judicial candidates. The nominees include Nicole G. Berner for the Fourth Circuit, Adeel Abdullah Mangi for the Third Circuit, Amy M. Baggio for the District of Oregon, Cristal C. Brisco for the Northern District of Indiana, and Gretchen S. Lund also for the Northern District of Indiana.
Durbin began by acknowledging the committee's busy year, having held 35 full committee hearings and 22 markups. He expressed gratitude to Ranking Member Graham and all members of the committee for their partnership. Durbin highlighted the significance of this hearing, as it marks the 14th nominations hearing of the year.
Durbin then drew attention to the historic nature of the nominations, stating, "Ms. Berner would be the first LGBTQ American to serve on the Fourth Circuit, and Mr. Mangi would be the first Muslim American to ever serve as a judge on a federal appellate court." He emphasized the importance of recognizing these milestones, as well as the accomplishments and professional experience of all the nominees.
Durbin further highlighted that each of the nominees had received blue slips from both of their home state Senators, demonstrating bipartisan support. He specifically mentioned Senators Young and Braun of Indiana for their cooperation in filling vacancies in their state. Durbin expressed hope for continued progress in the new year, stating, "I look forward to seeing more of the same in the new year."
The hearing is part of the Committee's ongoing efforts to fill judicial and executive vacancies with highly qualified and diverse candidates who ensure the fair and impartial administration of the American justice system. Under Durbin's leadership, the Senate has confirmed 162 judges to lifetime appointments on the federal bench during the Biden Administration.
In conclusion, Durbin reaffirmed the committee's commitment to confirming judges who are well-suited for their roles and contribute to the integrity of the American justice system. Eighteen lifetime judges are currently eligible for a vote on the Senate floor, including two circuit court nominees and fourteen district court nominees.
The video, audio, and footage of Durbin's opening statement are available for viewing and listening for those interested in following the proceedings.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/press/releases/durbin-delivers-opening-statement-during-judiciary-committee-hearing-on-five-judicial-nominations
