Former Dem congressman who lost by 109 votes in 2020 confirmed to lifetime judicial seat

Anthony J. Brindisi, a former Democratic member of Congress who currently serves on the New York State Court of Claims in Utica, has been appointed as a judge in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. This appointment comes after President Joe Biden nominated him in July, and the Democratic-led U.S. Senate voted 50-49 in his favor. Brindisi will be succeeding 87-year-old David Hurd, the nation’s oldest active district court judge.

Brindisi’s appointment marks a significant moment as he becomes the first former member of Congress to join the federal bench in over two decades. Despite facing opposition from Republicans due to his stances on legislation supporting immigrants and LGBTQ rights, Brindisi managed to secure the position.

During his confirmation hearings, Brindisi faced several lines of questioning aimed at distinguishing his role as a judge from his previous role as a politician. When asked by Tennessee Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn whether he was a politician or a judge, Brindisi confidently responded, “I’m a judge, senator.”

At 46 years old, Brindisi was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018 and served one term before losing his seat to Republican Claudia Tenney in the 2020 election. Following his time in Congress, Brindisi returned to his former law firm, Brindisi, Murad & Brindisi Pearlman, in Utica, before taking on the role of a state court judge in 2022.

Former President Donald Trump criticized Brindisi’s appointment, accusing Democrats of trying to “stack the Courts” with radical appointees. Despite the opposition, Brindisi’s confirmation signifies a significant moment in judicial history.

Brindisi emphasized during his confirmation process that his role as a judge was distinct from his previous work in lawmaking. He expressed his commitment to being a fair and impartial judge, ensuring that all parties feel heard and respected in his courtroom.

This appointment marks a rare occasion where a former member of Congress transitions to the federal bench, a milestone not seen since 2002. Brindisi’s dedication to upholding the law and serving justice underscores his qualifications for this esteemed position.

In conclusion, Anthony J. Brindisi’s appointment as a judge in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York highlights his commitment to justice and fairness in the legal system. His journey from Congress to the federal bench showcases his expertise and dedication to upholding the rule of law.