In a significant move for President Donald Trump, the Senate confirmed Whitney Hermandorfer as a U.S. Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit on Monday. The vote, which passed 46-42 along party lines, marks the first judicial appointment of Trump’s second term. Hermandorfer will take the place of Judge Jane Branstetter Stranch, who was appointed during the Obama administration. Notably, a dozen senators did not participate in the vote.
Hermandorfer’s confirmation is seen as a positive step for the federal judiciary, according to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, who praised her qualifications and legal expertise. He highlighted her experience leading major civil rights cases in Tennessee and her strong constitutional philosophy. Grassley expressed confidence that she would excel as a federal judge.
Before her nomination, Hermandorfer served as the Director of the Strategic Litigation Unit in the Office of the Tennessee Attorney General. She has an impressive background, having worked as an associate at a prominent law firm in Washington, D.C., and as a law clerk for several high-profile judges and justices, including Supreme Court Justices Samuel Alito and Amy Coney Barrett.
Hermandorfer holds a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University, where she was co-captain of the women’s basketball team. She graduated summa cum laude from the George Washington University Law School, finishing first in her class and serving as editor-in-chief of the law review.
Trump announced Hermandorfer’s nomination in May, highlighting her dedication to protecting citizens from federal overreach and her commitment to the rule of law. He praised her as a fighter who would inspire confidence in the legal system.
However, some Democrats raised concerns about her experience, suggesting that she may prioritize political interests over the law. Senate Judiciary ranking member Dick Durbin criticized the nomination, arguing that Hermandorfer’s record indicated a tendency to favor Trump over legal principles.
During her confirmation hearing, Hermandorfer emphasized the importance of judges adhering to constitutional boundaries. She acknowledged the power and responsibility that come with judicial authority, stating that judges should interpret the law rather than create it based on personal preferences.
The confirmation process for Hermandorfer was not without challenges, as she advanced from the Judiciary Committee with a narrow 12-10 vote. Other judicial nominees from Trump are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks, as he continues to fill judicial positions during his second term.
Senator Bill Hagerty of Tennessee celebrated Hermandorfer’s confirmation, stating that she would set a high standard for future nominees. Grassley’s office noted that the Senate has been active in confirming Trump’s nominees, outpacing previous administrations in the early months of his second term. This includes the confirmation of 21 Cabinet members and 89 civilian nominees, along with 12 ambassadors.
