Obama's First Appellate Court Nomination David Hamilton

CQP:
President Obama made his first appellate court nomination Tuesday, tapping Indiana federal judge David F. Hamilton for a seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit.

The president’s pick was a clear signal that he hopes to establish a new bipartisan tone on appellate court nominations, which have roiled the Senate for years. But it is too early to tell how the process will play out.

“Judge Hamilton has a long and impressive record of service and a history of handing down fair and judicious decisions,” Obama said. “He will be a thoughtful and distinguished addition to the 7th Circuit and I am extremely pleased to put him forward to serve the people of Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.”

The White House announcement included a statement from Sen. Richard G. Lugar , R-Ind., hailing the nomination. Senate Republicans have threatened to filibuster any judicial nomination from states with Republican senators unless those lawmakers sign off on the candidate.

“I enthusiastically support the Senate confirmation of David Hamilton for U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals,” Lugar said. Indiana’s junior senator, Democrat Evan Bayh , said he was “proud to work side by side with Sen. Lugar to recommend Judge Hamilton for this lifetime appointment.”