The U.S. Senate confirmed Mustafa Taher Kasubhai as a federal judge in Oregon, making him the first Muslim American to serve on the federal bench. The confirmation, which was done along party lines, comes as Democrats work to confirm judicial appointments before the end of the 118th Congress. Kasubhai, who has a strong legal background, had faced scrutiny during his confirmation hearing regarding issues like race and gender rather than his jurisprudence.
President Joe Biden nominated Kasubhai in September 2023, and despite the delays in the confirmation process due to attendance issues in the Senate, his appointment was finally approved. The appointment of federal judges has become a politically charged issue, with groups like the Federalist Society playing a role in vetting candidates for judicial positions.
In a joint statement, Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley praised Kasubhai for his legal accomplishments, judicial temperament, and personal integrity. The rush to confirm Biden’s judicial nominations comes as Democrats face the loss of control in the Senate following Republican victories in both the U.S. Congress and the White House. Despite the political challenges, Kasubhai’s confirmation is seen as a significant step in diversifying the federal judiciary and ensuring a fair and impartial legal system.
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