Durbin Statement on Senate Confirmation of Nicole Berner to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Nicole Berner to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement regarding Ms. Berner’s confirmation:
“Ms. Berner is a highly experienced litigator who will bring an underrepresented perspective to the bench. She’s a steadfast advocate forworkers’ rights, reproductive rights, and civil rights for all. And now, she is the first LGBTQ+ judge to serve on this court.
“I congratulate Ms. Berner on becoming the forty-first Circuit Court judge confirmed under President Biden, and the latest example of Senate Democrats voting to confirm diverse, highly qualified judicial nominees that will ensure a fair system of justice for all.”
On January 18, 2024, Ms. Berner’s nomination advanced out of the Judiciary Committee in a 11-10 vote.
Today’s confirmation continues the Committee’s work filling judicial vacancies with highly qualified, diverse candidates who help ensure the fair and impartial administration of the American justice system.
Under the leadership of Chair Durbin, the Senate has confirmed 186 judges to lifetime appointments on the federal bench during the Biden administration. Following Ms. Berner’s confirmation, twelve lifetime judges – including two circuit court nominees and ten district court nominees – are eligible for a vote on the Senate floor.
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