Senate unanimously confirms Douglas B. Thomas to Seventh Judicial District

The Utah Senate on Feb. 27 confirmed Douglas B. Thomas to serve as a judge in the Seventh Judicial District, voting 28–0 to approve the governor’s nomination.

Senator Hilliard moved the confirmation after the Senate reread the governor’s communication nominating Thomas under Utah Code 67-1-1 and related rules. The Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee, chaired by Senator Chris Butters, reported a unanimous favorable recommendation. Senator Butters told colleagues the committee had ‘‘a great experience’’ with Thomas and ‘‘heartily recommend[ed] him’’ to the full body.

Douglas B. Thomas addressed the chamber after confirmation. ‘‘I am grateful to you for your dedication and the many long hours you devote in the service of our state,’’ he said, thanking the governor and committee. He said he valued ‘‘treating those who come before the court with courtesy and respect,’’ being prepared for every case and ‘‘diligently and faithfully following the law.’’

Supporters noted Thomas’s ties to and willingness to live in the Seventh District, and senators said that local familiarity could reduce frequent recusals that can arise when judges know many community members. Senator Demetrij welcomed Thomas as a ‘‘great candidate’’ for the district.

The confirmation followed the committee’s endorsement and a public reading of the governor’s communication. The Senate recorded the final vote on the floor as 28 yes, 0 no and 0 absent. After the vote the Senate resolved into a Committee of the Whole so Thomas could speak to members.

The nomination now returns to the administrative steps for enrolling and placement in the Seventh Judicial District.