Story perspectives

Trump's Judicial Confirmations Slow Amid Loyalty Concerns

3/18/2026

48 11

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump oversaw a surge in federal judiciary confirmations in his first term, with over 200 judges confirmed, including three Supreme Court justices.
In his second term, judicial appointments have slowed due to fewer seats and judges delaying retirement to avoid loyalty-based replacements.
Gregg Nunziata, a former Republican counsel, says the loyalty-testing mindset offends judges and could complicate future nominations if the Senate flips to Democratic control.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump oversaw a surge in federal judiciary confirmations in his first term, with over 200 judges confirmed, including three Supreme Court justices.
In his second term, judicial appointments have slowed due to fewer seats and judges delaying retirement to avoid loyalty-based replacements.
Gregg Nunziata, a former Republican counsel, says the loyalty-testing mindset offends judges and could complicate future nominations if the Senate flips to Democratic control.