Story perspectives

Vermont Supreme Court Confirmations Spark Controversy and Debate

2/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michael Drescher was confirmed to Vermont's Supreme Court on February 3, 2026, after a contentious vote.
Republican Lt. Gov. John Rodgers cast a rare tie-breaking vote in Vermont's divided Senate.
Senators raised ethical concerns about Drescher's time as a federal prosecutor under the Trump administration, including detentions of Mohsen Mahdawi and Rümeysa Öztürk.
Christina Nolan, another former federal prosecutor, was confirmed with less debate.
Both justices will serve lifetime appointments.

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Story summary

Michael Drescher was confirmed to Vermont's Supreme Court on February 3, 2026, after a contentious vote.
Republican Lt. Gov. John Rodgers cast a rare tie-breaking vote in Vermont's divided Senate.
Senators raised ethical concerns about Drescher's time as a federal prosecutor under the Trump administration, including detentions of Mohsen Mahdawi and Rümeysa Öztürk.
Christina Nolan, another former federal prosecutor, was confirmed with less debate.
Both justices will serve lifetime appointments.