Senate Confirms Former Trump Lawyer Emil Bove to Federal Appeals Court by One Vote

The Senate narrowly confirmed Emil Bove, a former personal lawyer to President Donald Trump and a top Justice Department official, to a lifetime appointment on the Third U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals by a 50-49 vote, with two Republican senators joining Democrats in opposition. Bove's nomination was highly controversial due to allegations from multiple whistleblowers accusing him of intentionally misleading federal courts, lying to Congress, and pressuring prosecutors to align with Trump administration policies, including urging officials to ignore court orders. Opposition was strong from Democrats, legal experts, more than 900 former Justice Department attorneys, and over 75 retired judges, who criticized his professional conduct and ethical record. Despite these concerns, Republicans, holding the Senate majority, confirmed Bove, emphasizing his work on civil rights and national security. Senators Adam Schiff and Cory Booker called for investigations into the whistleblower complaints, highlighting the need for full transparency before the vote. Bove's appointment places him on a powerful federal appellate court covering Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.