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Senate Confirms Trump's Judicial Nominees Amid Controversy

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 5, 2026, the United States Senate confirmed two judicial nominees from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Brian Lea, a former law clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas, was confirmed by a 50-46 vote.
Justin Olson, a lawyer known for opposing transgender athletes in women's sports, was confirmed by a 50-47 vote.
The confirmations bring Trump's total to 33 in his second term, and the Senate currently has four pending nominations.

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Story summary

On February 5, 2026, the United States Senate confirmed two judicial nominees from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Brian Lea, a former law clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas, was confirmed by a 50-46 vote.
Justin Olson, a lawyer known for opposing transgender athletes in women's sports, was confirmed by a 50-47 vote.
The confirmations bring Trump's total to 33 in his second term, and the Senate currently has four pending nominations.