AFJ Condemns Confirmation of First Trump 2.0 Judge

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 14, 2025 – Today the Senate voted 46-42 to confirm Whitney Hermandorfer to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Alliance for Justice opposed this nomination and condemns this confirmation that will set back civil rights for decades to come.

Whitney Hermandorfer brings a disturbing record. Her conservative bona fides including clerking for three of the current Supreme Court justices (including two Trump appointees) and connections to the Federalist Society and shadowy Teneo network. She has fought to allow discrimination against transgender students and has defended Trump’s efforts to circumvent the Constitution on birthright citizenship.

Alliance for Justice President Rachel Rossi issued the following statement:

“Whitney Hermandorfer’s lack of experience, extreme agenda, history of advocacy for the wealthy and powerful, and loyalty to Trump makes her an ominous bellwether of what’s to come for our courts. Executive actions and policies can be undone eventually, but judges serve for life. It’s extremely disappointing to see senators compromise the future of our rights out of their fealty to Trump. Our courts are trying to hold the line for our Constitution, and the last thing we need is a judge who openly expresses her willingness to toss it out to hand Trump victories.  We are grateful the Democrats voted against this nomination and hope they will continue to fight to keep as many of Trump’s toadies off the bench as possible.”