Crapo Chairs Hearing for Ninth Circuit Nominees

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is the largest in the nation with jurisdiction over nine states and two territorial courts.  With the State of Idaho as part of that circuit, its judges have influence over Western issues that affect Idahoans.  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today chaired a hearing on a slate of nominees, including two selected to serve as judges on the Ninth Circuit. 

“Since the Ninth Circuit was established in 1890, the West has experienced explosive population growth across several states.  This results in significant caseloads for judges to consider and for those seeking justice to navigate a lengthy journey to justice,” said Crapo.  “It is important that all who come before the Court receive fair and equal justice from judges who understand that their role is to interpret the Constitution as it is written.  For this to happen, this influential court must have a full bench of judges who can hear cases and ensure that timely justice is served." 

Today’s hearing is the first to consider additional nominations to the Ninth Circuit since the Senate confirmed Ryan Nelson of Idaho Falls to the Ninth Circuit on October 11.  Nelson will take the seat vacated by Judge N. Randy Smith who earlier this year announced he will take senior status. 

Appearing before the committee today were Bridget Bade and Eric Miller, both of whom have been nominated to the Ninth Circuit.  The hearing also included nominees Karin Immergut, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Oregon, and Richard Hertling, to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. 

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