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Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Two Judicial Nominations To Full Senate At Last Scheduled Meeting Under Democratic Control

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee advanced two judicial nominations to the full Senate, continuing the Committee’s work to bring balance to the federal judiciary and keep our communities safe. Under the leadership of Chair Durbin, the Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced 373 nominees to the full Senate, including 242 judicial nominees. The Senate has confirmed 233 judges to lifetime appointments on the federal bench during the Biden-Harris Administration.

At the top of the hearing, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, opened with brief remarks welcoming U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) to the committee.

“Senator Schiff was sworn in earlier this week, as he is completing the remainder of our dear friend Dianne Feinstein’s term. He has taken over Senator Butler’s seat on this Committee. No one could replace the trailblazer that was Senator Feinstein. But Senator Butler rose to the occasion and was a valued member of the Committee over the last year. We wish her well. Senator Schiff, welcome,” said Durbin.

Then, the Committee advanced two judicial nominations to the full Senate.

“After our last scheduled business meeting, I can confidently say that the Senate Judiciary Committee has fulfilled its role of advice and consent. We’ve advanced 373 nominees to the Senate floor, including 242 judicial nominees. Judge Cheeks and Judge Murillo fulfill our goal to bring balance to the federal judiciary and ensure a fairer justice system. Senate Democrats are accomplishing a remarkable feat by confirming Biden-Harris judges, and we will run through the finish line at the end of this Congress,” said Durbin of the advanced nominations.

The following nominations were reported by the indicated vote totals:

  • Benjamin J. Cheeks, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of California: 11-10
  • Serena Raquel Murillo, to be United States District Judge for the Central District of California: 11-10

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