Story perspectives

Trump Confirms 25 Judges Amid Blocked Nominations

12/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed 25 federal judges, far fewer than Biden's 40 in his first year.
Judges are not retiring, limiting Trump's ability to fill vacancies.
Experts say judges distrust Trump's picks after controversial appointments like Emil Bove, who faced serious allegations.
Senate rules, including the blue slip tradition, require home-state approval for district court nominees.
Democrats have used blue slips to block some Trump nominees.

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Story summary

In 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed 25 federal judges, far fewer than Biden's 40 in his first year.
Judges are not retiring, limiting Trump's ability to fill vacancies.
Experts say judges distrust Trump's picks after controversial appointments like Emil Bove, who faced serious allegations.
Senate rules, including the blue slip tradition, require home-state approval for district court nominees.
Democrats have used blue slips to block some Trump nominees.