GOP Accelerates Judge Confirmations As Pressure Builds To Kill Senate Blue Slip

Senate Republicans have stepped up efforts to confirm President Donald Trump’s judicial nominees, recently approving six additional judges as part of a faster confirmation strategy. Since the start of Trump’s second term, 33 judges have been confirmed—well ahead of the pace seen early in his first presidency. The move underscores Republican ambitions to shape the federal courts while maintaining Senate control.

Meanwhile, divisions within the GOP have surfaced over the traditional “blue slip” process, which lets home-state senators delay or block nominees. Trump and several supporters argue the custom gives Democrats too much power to stall confirmations. They say it slows appointments to key judicial and U.S. attorney roles.

Other Republicans disagree. Senator Thom Tillis and allies caution against ending blue slips, stressing the rule safeguards minority-party influence. They note Republicans could rely on the same protection if Democrats regain the Senate. Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley has also defended the 110-year-old practice as widely respected.

Past confirmation totals offer perspective. In Trump’s first year during his initial term, the Senate confirmed 19 Article III judges, including Justice Neil Gorsuch. President Joe Biden, by contrast, secured 42 confirmations in his first year. Whether Trump’s second term will exceed his earlier total of 234 judges is still unclear.

Trump’s opposition to blue slips grew after nominees such as Alina Habba and Lindsey Halligan were blocked. Although Grassley eased the rule for circuit courts in 2017, he says further changes are unnecessary.

One recent vote reflects the broader push. The Senate confirmed Nicholas Ganjei to a lifetime federal judgeship in Houston by a 51–45 margin. Trump praised the former U.S. attorney and Ted Cruz aide for his tough positions on immigration and public safety.