President Biden and Senate Democrats are in a tight race to confirm more judicial nominees than former President Donald Trump did during his term. However, their ambitious goal faces significant obstacles due to the approaching Senate recesses and a packed legislative agenda. Despite the hurdles, Senate Democrats remain optimistic about their ability to secure confirmations for Biden’s picks.
While Biden has appointed 205 federal judges, exceeding Trump’s 204 appointments, the timing of these confirmations is crucial. The Senate is scheduled for a month-long recess in August, followed by another in October, significantly hindering progress. These recesses, along with the anticipated legislative battles, pose a serious challenge to Democrats’ efforts.
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., has advanced seven nominees out of committee for consideration. However, it remains unclear when these votes will take place due to the looming recesses. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has emphasized the need for a bipartisan approach to spending bills, but the inclusion of a controversial voter ID bill in the upcoming spending debate threatens to further complicate matters.
With the Senate expected to be in session for only limited periods in November and December, the remaining time for judicial confirmations is shrinking. The race is tight, and the upcoming months will be critical for determining whether Biden can surpass Trump’s record for judicial appointments. The success of this effort hinges on the Senate’s ability to overcome the challenges posed by the upcoming recesses and the increasingly complex legislative landscape.
