Former congressman Anthony J. Brindisi secures lifetime federal judgeship in a narrow Senate vote, marking a rare transition from legislative to judicial roles.
At a Glance
- Anthony Brindisi confirmed as federal judge for Northern District of New York by 50-49 vote
- First ex-congressman to join federal bench in over 20 years
- Republican opposition focused on past legislative positions
- Brindisi emphasizes commitment to impartiality in new role
- Appointment part of Democratic push to approve judicial nominees
Senate Confirms Brindisi in Narrow Vote
In a closely watched confirmation process, the U.S. Senate has approved Anthony J. Brindisi as a federal judge for the Northern District of New York. The former Democratic congressman secured his lifetime appointment with a razor-thin margin of 50-49, highlighting the partisan divide that has come to characterize judicial confirmations. Brindisi’s appointment is noteworthy as he becomes the first ex-congressman in over two decades to ascend to the federal bench.
The confirmation comes as part of a broader Democratic strategy to approve judicial nominees before the anticipated shift in Senate control. President Joe Biden nominated Brindisi in July, setting the stage for a contentious confirmation process that saw unanimous opposition from Senate Republicans.
From the halls of Congress to the federal bench. https://t.co/kMOzm1XWLa
— Anthony Adragna (@AnthonyAdragna) December 2, 2024
Republican Opposition and Brindisi’s Background
Republican senators voiced concerns over Brindisi’s legislative history, particularly his positions on immigration and LGBTQ rights during his tenure in Congress. The opposition underscores the scrutiny faced by judicial nominees with prior political experience. Brindisi, who represented New York’s 22nd Congressional District from 2019 to 2021, lost his seat to Republican Claudia Tenney in a closely contested 2020 election.
“On the bench, are you a politician or a judge?” Tennessee Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn asked. “I’m a judge, senator,” Brindisi responded.
Following his congressional term, Brindisi returned to his law firm before being appointed as a state court judge in 2022. His diverse legal background includes serving as a partner at Brindisi, Murad & Brindisi Pearlman, LLP, and representing District 119 in the New York State Assembly from 2011 to 2019.
Support from Democratic Leadership
Despite Republican opposition, Brindisi received strong backing from key Democratic figures. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand praised Brindisi’s qualifications and commitment to public service, highlighting his deep ties to the region he will serve.
“He is a proud son of Utica and a former member of Congress. I worked closely with him on many issues for Upstate New York, particularly his hometown of Utica… He is also an exceptionally qualified attorney whose legal acumen and deep care for the Mohawk Valley – and all of Central New York – will make him an excellent addition to the Northern District.” – Source
Brindisi will replace retiring U.S. District Judge David Hurd in Utica, taking on a role that covers 32 counties in the Northern District of New York. Federal district judges earn an annual salary of $243,300, reflecting the importance and responsibility of their positions.
Looking Ahead: Implications and Expectations
As Brindisi transitions from his role as a state Supreme Court justice in Oneida County to the federal bench, he faces the challenge of maintaining impartiality while drawing on his diverse legal and legislative experience. His confirmation comes at a time of increased scrutiny over the judiciary’s independence and the impact of political backgrounds on judicial decision-making.
“Judge Brindisi is an accomplished and exceptionally qualified attorney with a long and distinguished record of public service. Our legal system will be well served by his sharp legal mind and commitment to fair and equal justice.” – Source
As Brindisi takes his seat on the federal bench, all eyes will be on how he navigates the transition from lawmaker to jurist, and whether his past political experience will influence his judicial approach. His commitment to being a “fair and impartial judge” will be put to the test as he begins his lifetime appointment in the Northern District of New York.
Sources:
- Anthony Brindisi confirmed as federal judge for Northern District of New York
- US Senate confirms Anthony Brindisi to federal judge’s post in Central New York
