In a significant move aimed at enhancing diversity and experience within the judicial system, President Joe Biden has unveiled his selection of district judge and U.S. attorney nominees. Among these distinguished individuals are nominees for Oklahoma and the Districts of Massachusetts, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Let’s dive into this transformative announcement.
Oklahoma’s Legal Eagles
For the Northern District of Oklahoma, President Biden has nominated two accomplished individuals, Sara E. Hill and John D. Russell, each bringing a unique blend of experience to the table.
- Sara E. Hill: A former attorney general of the Cherokee Nation, Hill is now a prominent lawyer in private practice. Her extensive legal journey has seen her serve as the secretary of natural resources, deputy attorney general, and assistant attorney general for the Cherokee Nation. Hill’s experience also extends to her role as a special assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, showcasing her diverse legal expertise. She holds a law degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law.
- John D. Russell: Russell, a shareholder at the respected Oklahoma law firm GableGotwals, has had a remarkable career trajectory. He has previously served as a shareholder and director at Fellers Snider Blankenship Bailey & Tippens PC, held the position of senior attorney at Gardere, Wynn, Sewell LLP, and worked as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma. Russell’s legal acumen is further evidenced by his role as a trial attorney in the tax division for the U.S. Department of Justice and his association with Bracewell LLP. He is a proud alumnus of the University of Oklahoma College of Law.
Senator James Lankford, R-Okla., congratulated both nominees, emphasizing their dedication to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.
The Massachusetts Nominee
For the District of Massachusetts, President Biden introduced Joshua S. Levy as the U.S. attorney nominee. Levy, who has served as acting U.S. attorney for the District of Massachusetts since May, boasts an impressive legal career. He previously held the position of first assistant U.S. Attorney in the same district. Moreover, Levy’s experience extends to his 17-year partnership at Ropes & Gray LLP.
Leaders for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands
President Biden’s commitment to diversity and excellence is further reflected in his nomination of Judge Johnny C. Gogo for U.S. attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Judge Gogo, currently serving in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara since 2019, brings a wealth of experience. His background includes a role as a deputy district attorney with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office.
Marshals and Sentencing Commission
The President also introduced other noteworthy nominees:
- Clinton Fuchs: Nominated for U.S. Marshal for the District of Maryland, Clinton Fuchs currently serves as an assistant U.S. attorney for the District of Maryland. His previous role included an impressive tenure with the West Virginia State Police from 1992 to 2019.
- David Lemmon: Nominated for U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of West Virginia, David Lemmon is the dean of Professional and Technical Studies at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College. His background includes a distinguished service with the West Virginia State Police.
Lastly, President Biden announced his intent to re-nominate Judges Claria Horn Boom and Judge John Gleeson to serve on the U.S. Sentencing Commission. These re-nominations reflect his continued commitment to experienced and dedicated legal professionals.
