During a recent government meeting, tensions flared as Senator Marsha Blackburn expressed her deep dissatisfaction with the Biden administration's handling of judicial nominations from Tennessee. This marks the fourth instance where Blackburn, alongside Senator Bill Hagerty, claims they have been excluded from the nomination process, raising concerns about the constitutional principle of \"advice and consent.\"
Blackburn criticized the White House for what she described as a \"backroom deal\" in the nomination of Miss Campbell to the 6th Circuit, paralleling her concerns with the previous nomination of Kevin Ritz. She argued that the administration's failure to consult with Tennessee senators has led to the selection of candidates deemed unqualified by many in the state, citing ethical misconduct and radical political affiliations as key issues.
The senator emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation in judicial nominations, warning that the current disregard for home state senators could have long-term repercussions. Blackburn's remarks were met with a response from committee members, who noted that the White House claimed to have consulted with Tennessee senators prior to the nominations, a point Blackburn vehemently disputed.
As the meeting progressed, the committee moved forward with the nomination process, administering oaths to the nominees, including Miss Campbell, who expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and her aspiration to serve as a judge. The discussions highlighted ongoing frustrations regarding the nomination process and the perceived lack of collaboration between the White House and state representatives.