President Biden Nominates Diverse Slate of Candidates for Federal Courts and U.S. Marshals

President Biden has announced his intent to nominate five individuals to federal district courts and one individual to the Court of Federal Claims, emphasizing their qualifications, experience, and commitment to the rule of law. This aligns with the President’s promise to enhance diversity in the nation’s courts, reflecting a broad range of personal and professional backgrounds.

The latest nominees bring the total number of announced federal judicial nominees by President Biden to 209, marking the forty-third round of nominations. Additionally, the President intends to nominate two individuals for U.S. Marshal positions, essential roles in upholding the rule of law.

Federal District Court Nominees:

1. Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen

Nominee for the United States District Court for the District of Utah
Judge Allen has served on Utah’s Fifth District Court in Cedar City since 2020, bringing extensive legal experience. Her background includes roles at Southern Utah University, private practice, and service as a Deputy County Attorney.

2. Judge Susan M. Bazis

Nominee for the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska
Judge Bazis, a U.S. Magistrate Judge since 2017, previously served as a Douglas County Court Judge. Her career spans private practice, including work as an associate and a solo practitioner, showcasing her diverse legal background.

3. Ernesto “Ernest” Gonzalez

Nominee for the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas
Gonzalez, a Senior Attorney Advisor in the DOJ’s Criminal Division, Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Section, has a rich history as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. His career also includes service in Bexar County, Texas, as an Assistant District Attorney.

4. Judge Kelly H. Rankin

Nominee for the United States District Court for the District of Wyoming
Judge Rankin, Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge for the District of Wyoming since 2012, has an extensive legal career. He served as U.S. Attorney for Wyoming, Park County Attorney, and in various roles, contributing to his well-rounded experience.

5. Judge Leon Schydlower

Nominee for the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas
Judge Schydlower, a U.S. Magistrate Judge since 2015, combines private practice experience with military service. His diverse background includes work in Hawaii and active duty as a trial attorney in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps.

Court of Federal Claims Nominee:

Judge Robin M. Meriweather

Nominee for the United States Court of Federal Claims
Judge Meriweather, a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the District of Columbia since 2017, brings valuable experience as a former Assistant U.S. Attorney. Her legal career includes private practice, serving in the Civil Division, and clerking for Judge Merrick B. Garland.

U.S. Marshal Nominees:

1. Joseph R. “Joe” Adams

Nominee for United States Marshal for the Northern District of West Virginia
Chief of Police in Westover, West Virginia, since 2020, Adams previously served in the West Virginia State Police, rising to Senior Investigator. His law enforcement career, including various ranks, reflects a commitment to public safety.

2. Gary D. Grimes

Nominee for United States Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas
Grimes, owner of Grimes & Associates, LLC, brings a wealth of experience in law enforcement, security, and government affairs. His background includes serving as Sheriff of Sebastian County, Arkansas, and collaborating with law enforcement and emergency management.

The President’s nominations underscore his dedication to a judiciary that represents the nation’s diversity while prioritizing individuals committed to upholding the principles of justice. The nominees’ qualifications and backgrounds position them to contribute significantly to the federal judiciary and U.S. Marshal service.