Democratic Senators Express Concern Over Confirmation of Biden’s Muslim Judicial Nominee

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Democratic senators have raised concerns in private discussions with the White House regarding the confirmation of Adeel Mangi, President Joe Biden’s nominee for the US Third Circuit Court of Appeals. Sources familiar with these conversations have informed CNN that there may not be sufficient support in the Senate to confirm Mangi, potentially jeopardizing the confirmation of one of Biden’s key judicial appointments.

Mangi, a Muslim-American litigator from New York, was nominated by Biden in November, with the historic prospect of becoming the first Muslim-American to serve on any federal appeals court. However, Democratic allies of the White House on Capitol Hill have indicated that there may be insufficient backing, even among Democrats, to secure Mangi’s confirmation in the Senate.

The controversy surrounding Mangi’s nomination unfolds amidst heightened political tensions following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. During his confirmation hearing before the Judiciary Committee in December, Mangi faced intense questioning from lawmakers, particularly from Republican senators, regarding his views on various issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Senator Ted Cruz of Texas raised concerns about Mangi’s association with the Center for Security, Race and Rights at Rutgers University, suggesting that the group espoused extremist views and anti-Semitic sentiments. Mangi clarified that his role on the center’s advisory board was limited to annual meetings advising on academic research, and he disavowed any knowledge of the group’s events or speakers.

In response to Cruz’s inquiry about the Hamas attack, Mangi unequivocally condemned the violence, emphasizing the tragic loss of innocent lives. Despite these assurances, Mangi’s nomination has faced continued scrutiny, with conservative lawmakers expressing reservations.

The White House has vigorously advocated for Mangi’s confirmation, with top officials, including White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zientz and White House Counsel Ed Siskel, mobilizing support since his nomination. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates affirmed the administration’s commitment to Mangi, highlighting his qualifications and dedication to upholding the rule of law.

The confirmation process for Mangi has become a focal point of contention, with Democratic senators condemning what they perceive as Islamophobic attacks against the nominee. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin expressed dismay over the scrutiny Mangi has faced, suggesting that suspicions about his religion have unjustly influenced the confirmation proceedings.

Despite Mangi’s advancement through the Judiciary Committee, concerns persist about garnering sufficient support in the full Senate. Democratic senators and the White House continue to navigate the challenges surrounding Mangi’s confirmation, emphasizing the importance of diversity on the federal bench and condemning discriminatory attacks against nominees based on their religious affiliation.

As reported by CNN in their recent article