Nashville Standard

United States Senators Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn have issued a joint statement following a bipartisan agreement in the Senate. The agreement allows for a vote on President Biden’s district court nominees while withdrawing four circuit court nominees.

"The Senate’s agreement will allow President Trump to fill four additional circuit court vacancies, including the vacancy created when Judge Stranch of the Sixth Circuit announced her retirement," stated Senators Hagerty and Blackburn.

The statement also expressed concern about judges potentially turning federal judgeships into partisan positions. "It is our hope that the judges who created these circuit court vacancies do not inappropriately turn federal judgeships into partisan offices by rescinding their retirements now that President Trump—instead of President Biden—will be appointing their successors."

Senators Hagerty and Blackburn emphasized the importance of appointing a judge who upholds the rule of law for Tennessee. "Regardless of which president appoints Judge Stranch’s successor, the people of Tennessee deserve a judge who will uphold the rule of law. We look forward to working with President Trump to identify a qualified candidate for this seat."