Biden’s Withdrawal of Adeel Mangi’s Nomination to the Third Circuit Court: Controversies and Opposition

Man in suit talking at a table indoors.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer withdraws Adeel Mangi’s nomination for the Third Circuit Court of Appeals amid bipartisan opposition and controversy.

At a Glance

  • Schumer struck a deal with Republicans to withdraw four appellate court nominations, including Mangi’s, in exchange for advancing 12 district court nominees
  • Three Democratic senators joined Republicans in opposing Mangi’s nomination
  • Law enforcement organizations strongly opposed Mangi due to his controversial organizational ties
  • Mangi faced criticism for his affiliations with groups accused of anti-police and anti-Israel rhetoric
  • The agreement leaves several appellate court positions open for the next presidential administration

Senate Deal Leads to Withdrawal of Controversial Nominee

In a significant political move, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has withdrawn the nomination of Adeel Mangi to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. This decision came as part of a larger agreement with Senate Republicans that impacts multiple judicial appointments. The deal involves advancing 12 district court nominees while withdrawing four appellate court nominations, including Mangi’s.

The withdrawal of Mangi’s nomination highlights the intense scrutiny and opposition he faced due to his organizational ties and board positions. Law enforcement organizations, particularly the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police, strongly opposed Mangi’s nomination, citing his connections to groups that have supported convicted police attackers.

Bipartisan Opposition and Controversial Affiliations

Mangi’s nomination faced an unusual level of bipartisan opposition. Three Democratic senators – Catherine Cortez Masto, Jacky Rosen, and Joe Manchin – joined Republicans in opposing the nomination. This rare cross-party consensus against a judicial nominee underscores the controversial nature of Mangi’s affiliations.

“Mr. Mangi’s affiliation with the Alliance of Families for Justice is deeply concerning. My concern is with respect to the organization that supports individuals who kill police officers.” – Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D., Nev.)

The controversy surrounding Mangi centered on his board positions with organizations accused of anti-police and anti-Israel rhetoric. His role with the Rutgers Center for Security, Race, and Rights faced particular scrutiny due to allegations of anti-Israel statements. Additionally, his board position with the Alliance of Families for Justice, which has supported individuals convicted of attacking police officers, was a major point of contention.

Implications for Future Judicial Appointments

The withdrawal of Mangi’s nomination, along with three other appellate nominees – Ryan Park, Karla Campbell, and Julia Lipez – as part of the Senate agreement, has significant implications for the judiciary. This deal effectively leaves several appellate court positions open for the next presidential administration to fill, potentially altering the ideological balance of these important courts.

“The trade was four circuit nominees—all lacking the votes to get confirmed—for more than triple the number of additional judges moving forward.” – a Schumer spokesman

The situation surrounding Mangi’s nomination and subsequent withdrawal highlights the ongoing challenges in the judicial nomination process, particularly for candidates with controversial affiliations or perceived ideological leanings. It also demonstrates the delicate balance of power in the Senate and the compromises necessary to advance judicial appointments in a divided political landscape.

Sources:

  1. ‘Lacking the Votes’: Schumer Abandons Embattled Biden Judicial Nominee Adeel Mangi
  2. Biden’s Radical Judicial Nominee Goes Down in Flames

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