Trump to sue over century-old blue slip tradition blocking judges
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President Donald Trump threatened a lawsuit on Monday over the Senate’s “blue slip” tradition, which he claims hinders his ability to appoint judges and U.S. attorneys.
Speaking from the Oval Office while signing executive orders, Trump criticized the blue slip practice, which requires senators to approve nominees for positions in their state.
“We’re also going to be filing a lawsuit on blue slipping,” Trump stated. “You know, blue slips make it impossible for me as president to appoint a judge or a U.S. attorney because they have a gentlemen’s agreement that’s about 100 years old.”
The blue slip tradition, although not a codified law, has been a long-standing practice that allows senators to have a say in nominees from their state. However, Trump argues that this tradition undermines his constitutional authority to nominate officials.
Challenges to the Blue Slip Tradition
President Donald Trump speaks as he signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Trump’s frustration with the blue slip practice has been ongoing, with previous criticisms calling it a “hoax” and a “scam” used by Democrats to block his nominees. He has specifically targeted Senator Chuck Grassley for supporting the tradition, demanding its elimination.
Despite Trump’s objections, Grassley has defended the blue slip process, citing it as a necessary norm for maintaining balance and state input in the nomination process.
Controversy and Confrontation
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has defended the century-old Senate tradition. (Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images, File)
Trump’s recent social media post directed at Grassley reflects his growing frustration with the Senate’s use of blue slips to block his nominees. The president’s strong words have ignited controversy and confrontation within the political sphere.
Despite these challenges, Trump’s track record of appointing federal judges remains significant. In his first term, he appointed 234 judges, including Supreme Court justices and appellate court judges. However, the current term has seen a slower pace of confirmations.
As the debate over the blue slip tradition continues, the balance between presidential authority and senatorial input remains a contentious issue in the realm of judicial appointments.
For more updates on this ongoing story, stay tuned to Fox News Digital.
