Staff Reports
In a classic case of political tug-of-war, the Senate recently went toe-to-toe on the confirmation of S. Kato Crews as the U.S. District Judge for Colorado. The dramatic proceedings concluded with a 51-48 vote in favor of Crews, after a grueling 10-month confirmation process.
Senate confirms Biden judicial nominee S. Kato Crews, who was stumped by Kennedy https://t.co/GQcD8Zowxp https://t.co/GQcD8Zowxp
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) January 10, 2024
The nomination, initiated by none other than President Joe Biden almost a year ago, has been fraught with challenges and controversy. The scrutiny began during Crews’ confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where his falter on a fundamental criminal law doctrine raised eyebrows and sparked concern. When confronted by Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) about analyzing a Brady motion, Crews stumbled and struggled to provide a coherent response, leading many to question his competence for the esteemed role.
If Crews’ misstep wasn’t embarrassing enough, another Biden judicial nominee, Judge Charnelle Bjelkengren, also stumbled under Sen. Kennedy’s scrutiny, failing to demonstrate a grasp on the purpose of Article 5 of the Constitution during her own confirmation hearing. Sen. Kennedy expressed rightful skepticism about these nominees, calling them out for their glaring lack of essential legal knowledge and underscoring the danger of appointing unqualified individuals to lifetime positions in the judiciary.
Adding fuel to the fire, last year’s prolonged absence of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein sparked further contention, allowing Republicans to block Crews’ nomination in the Judiciary Committee. At last, with Feinstein’s return and subsequent passing, the stage was set for a showdown with high stakes. The vote, with only a narrow margin of favor, has left many on edge about the potential impact of Crews’ confirmation on the integrity of the court.
As the political rollercoaster continues to churn, the controversial confirmation of Crews serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of judicial appointments and the heated battles that accompany them. With the corridors of power echoing with tension and intrigue, the drama unfolds, leaving many to ponder the implications of the latest twist in this gripping political saga.
