President Joe Biden is taking steps to fill judicial vacancies in states led by Republican senators, announcing five intended nominees with diverse legal backgrounds. These nominations reflect the administration’s commitment to addressing the backlog of vacancies in key regions.
Ernesto Gonzalez: Nominee for US District Court for the Western District of Texas
President Biden plans to nominate Ernesto Gonzalez, a senior attorney advisor in the Justice Department’s criminal division. With an extensive legal career, Gonzalez served as an assistant US attorney in two Texas districts and an assistant district attorney in San Antonio. His nomination aims to fill the US District Court seat for the Western District of Texas.
Leon Schydlower: Elevated to the Trial Bench in the Western District of Texas
Leon Schydlower, currently a US magistrate judge in the Western District of Texas, is set to be elevated to the trial bench. A former special assistant US attorney in Hawaii, Schydlower has a background as a US Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps trial attorney. Additionally, he has been serving in the US Air Force Reserve JAG Corps since 2010, holding the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Want to know if you’re earning what you deserve? Find out with LawCrossing’s salary surveys.
John Kazen: Texas Trial Court Nominee Awaits Senate Vote
While these nominations are unveiled, John Kazen, President Biden’s first Texas trial court nominee for the Southern District of Texas, is awaiting a floor vote in the Senate, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address judicial vacancies in the state.
Susan Bazis: Nominee for a Life-Tenured Seat
Susan Bazis, a US magistrate judge for the District of Nebraska, is the intended nominee for a life-tenured seat. Her previous roles as a county judge in Nebraska and a county-level assistant public defender showcase her diverse legal experience.
Kelly Rankin: Nominee for District Court in Wyoming
Kelly Rankin, chief US magistrate judge for the District of Wyoming, is set to be nominated for a position on the district court. With a background as the criminal chief in the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming, Rankin brings a wealth of experience to the potential role.
Ann Marie McIff Allen: Planned Nominee for the District of Utah
Ann Marie McIff Allen, currently a judge on Utah’s Fifth District Court, is the planned nominee for the District of Utah. Her previous role as the general counsel at Southern Utah University adds a unique dimension to her legal background.
Don’t be a silent ninja! Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.