• President Biden confirmed a record 235 federal judges, emphasizing diversity and appointing the first Black woman, Ketanji Brown Jackson, to the Supreme Court.
• His administration surpassed Trump’s first-term judicial confirmations and appointed more Black women to circuit courts than all prior administrations.
• Biden’s tenure has faced challenges, including contentious Supreme Court decisions, calls for judicial reforms, and debates over judicial independence.

President Joe Biden announced on January 2 the confirmation of 235 federal judges during his term, emphasizing his administration’s efforts to diversify the judiciary. Speaking at a press conference alongside Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Judiciary Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Biden underscored the critical role judges play in protecting freedoms and shaping daily life.

“Judges matter,” Biden remarked, adding that his administration achieved a historic milestone by nominating the first Black woman, Ketanji Brown Jackson, to the Supreme Court. “We now have a bench that represents all of America.”

Record-Breaking Judicial Confirmations

During his term, Biden secured confirmations for 45 judges to the nation’s courts of appeals, 187 judges to district courts, and two to the U.S. Court of International Trade. His administration also appointed more Black women to circuit courts than all previous administrations combined, according to a White House fact sheet released on December 20.

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Schumer praised Biden’s efforts, calling the judiciary “the shield that protects our democracy.” He credited the president with building a federal bench that reflects the nation’s diversity while safeguarding its institutions.

By comparison, former President Donald Trump confirmed 234 judges during his first term, a benchmark Biden has now slightly surpassed. The administration credits advanced Senate coordination for the pace of confirmations.

Ethical Challenges and Calls for Reform

Despite these achievements, Biden’s tenure has been marked by contentious Supreme Court decisions and criticism of judicial ethics. In June 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, ending federal protection for abortion rights. Biden has been vocal about his dismay, using this and other rulings to advocate for judicial reforms.

In December, Senate Democrats, led by Durbin, released a report on a 20-month investigation into what they called an “ethical crisis” at the Supreme Court. They demanded greater accountability and transparency. Chief Justice John Roberts, however, issued a warning that attacks on judicial independence could undermine the institution. He cautioned that political criticism from elected officials risks inciting dangerous reactions.

Biden’s Reforms and Judicial Policies

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Biden has also pushed for broader reforms within the federal judiciary. His proposals include reversing decisions that grant presidents immunity from prosecution and exploring ways to mitigate the influence of controversial rulings. However, not all his initiatives have been welcomed. Recently, Biden vetoed a bill that would have created 66 new federal judgeships, signaling his selective approach to expanding the judiciary.

Moreover, Biden’s handling of judicial rulings has drawn criticism. The Wall Street Journal editorial board accused the president of disregarding the Supreme Court’s authority, particularly after he pursued alternative student debt relief policies following the Court’s rejection of his original loan forgiveness plan.

A Mixed Legacy for the Judiciary

While Biden’s judicial nominees have been praised for their diversity and qualifications, his administration has faced significant challenges in navigating the contentious relationship between the executive branch and the courts. Senate Democrats have largely supported his approach, but critics argue that Biden’s rhetoric risks politicizing the judiciary.

Schumer, however, reiterated his confidence in Biden’s vision, stating, “You’ve helped build a judiciary that will protect our democracy for years to come.” Durbin echoed this sentiment, calling Biden’s nominees “the best of America.”

What Comes Next?

As Biden’s term progresses, the balance between judicial independence and accountability remains a key focus. The president continues to advocate for policies that align judicial decisions with public values, while critics push for nonpartisan court reforms.

The trajectory of Biden’s judicial legacy will ultimately depend on how the administration and Congress address ongoing challenges. As debates around judicial ethics and independence intensify, the public should stay informed about how decisions in Washington impact the judiciary’s role in shaping the nation’s future.

Stay engaged. Follow updates on judicial reforms and their implications for America’s democracy.

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