During the Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) questioned the nominees for United States Circuit Judges and United States District Judges. Durbin first questioned Nicole G. Berner, who was nominated to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit. Durbin asked Berner about her role as an advocate, to which she responded that she understands the difference between the role of a judge and an advocate. She assured that if confirmed, she would approach each case with an open mind and without personal bias.
Durbin then questioned Adeel Abdullah Mangi, nominated to be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit. Durbin asked Mangi about representing controversial clients and how he puts personal views aside when deciding a case. Mangi responded that he believes in effectively advocating for clients and that he sets aside his personal views to apply the law in a fair and evenhanded way.
Durbin also asked Mangi and Berner if they have been inspired by any judges they have worked with. Mangi mentioned a judge in New Jersey who is prepared and conducts themselves with dignity and respect. Berner mentioned the late Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman on the Supreme Court, as one of the judges she looked up to.
Moving on to the nominees for United States District Judges, Durbin questioned Gretchen S. Lund, nominated for the Northern District of Indiana, about her efforts to start Elkhart County's first drug court. Lund explained that the purpose of the drug court is to provide accountability and treatment for those suffering from substance abuse.
Durbin then asked Cristal C. Brisco, nominated for the Northern District of Indiana, about her judicial experience. Brisco highlighted her background as a magistrate judge and her appointment to the Indiana Supreme Court, as well as her experience issuing approximately 1,818 decisions.
Lastly, Durbin questioned Amy M. Baggio, nominated for the District of Oregon, about her judicial experience and background as a public defender. Baggio emphasized the importance of clear communication and setting personal feelings aside to fulfill the promise of the Sixth Amendment.
The Senate Judiciary Committee continues its work of filling judicial vacancies with highly qualified candidates. Under the leadership of Chair Durbin, the Senate has confirmed 162 judges during the Biden Administration. Eighteen lifetime judges, including circuit court and district court nominees, are eligible for a vote on the Senate floor.
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/press/releases/durbin-questions-circuit-district-court-nominees-at-latest-judiciary-committee-nominations-hearing
