Judicial Nominee Tracker
In an era of unprecedented judicial polarization and political influence, AFJ’s research into federal judicial nominees serves as a crucial line of defense for democracy, the rule of law, and civil rights.
Research Hub
AFJ’s research is a cornerstone in the fight for a fair, independent judiciary. As courts increasingly shape our rights — from reproductive freedom to voting and worker protections — we cut through the noise with rigorous analysis that shows why judges matter and exposes the real-life consequences of who sits on the bench. Our work empowers advocates, lawmakers, and the public to fight for fair, qualified judges committed to justice for all.
Data & Tools
Vacancy Tracker
Understand the current state of the federal judiciary with this tracker that provides a clear, comprehensive view of where judicial vacancies exist and how long they’ve been open.
Senior Status Tracker
Our Senior Status Tracker provides a comprehensive breakdown of all active Article III judges who are either currently eligible — or will become eligible — for senior status.
Exposing Harmful Trump Judges & Nominees
Letter of Opposition
Reject Justin Smith's Nomination
43 national organizations advocating for civil rights, gender equality, reproductive justice, environmental justice, and democratic accountability, oppose the nomination of Justin Smith for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Report
Reject Daniel Traynor's Nomination
Daniel Traynor has spent his legal career advocating for far-right causes and engaging in highly politically partisan work.
Letter of Opposition
Reject Michael Martin's Nomination
Like so many other Trump federal judicial nominees, Michael Martin’s actions continue to demonstrate unfettered loyalty to Trump above all else.
Factsheet
Democracy & Voting Rights
Trump judges have weakened our democracy by siding with those who seek to undermine democratic representation and limit voting rights.
A Dive Into Diversity & Representation on Our State Courts
Report
Hispanic State Supreme Justices Court
Highlighting the diversity among state supreme court justices. the new report profiles the 52 justices of Hispanic descent who have served on states’ highest courts, including the 20 actively serving on 13 courts right now.
Report
Black State Supreme Court Justices
It took nearly 100 years after the first Black state supreme court justice was appointed in 1870 for a second to follow—underscoring the persistent lack of diversity and urgent need for greater representation in our courts.
Report
AAPI State Supreme Court Justices
Highlighting the presence of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) justices on nine state supreme court benches across the nation, while also addressing the 41 state supreme courts that have never had an AAPI justice serve on its highest court
Report
LGBTQ+ State Supreme Court Justices
Highlighting the presence of members of the LGBTQ+ community on 12 state supreme court benches across the nation, while also addressing the 38 state supreme courts that have never had an LGBTQ+ justice.
Trump 2.0: The Lasting Damage So Far
With Trump back in the White House, the damage from his judicial appointments is only getting worse. AFJ is tracking Trump’s appointees and judges who are undermining rights, freedoms, and democracy — and exposing the long-term consequences of his agenda.
