The U.S. Senate narrowly confirmed Emil Bove, former defense lawyer for President Trump, to a lifetime seat on the Third U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on July 29. The vote was 50–49, with two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, joining all Democrats in opposition.
Bove’s nomination sparked intense debate. Critics, including more than 900 former DOJ attorneys and over 75 retired judges, raised ethical concerns over his involvement in politically charged Department of Justice decisions. These included directing the dismissal of corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, which triggered the resignations of multiple prosecutors, and advising DOJ attorneys to ignore court orders in immigration cases, as alleged by whistleblowers.
Whistleblower accusations also claim Bove misled Congress about his role in the Adams case. He denied these allegations under oath, calling them part of a smear campaign, and insisted he never encouraged violation of judicial orders.
Supporters defended Bove’s confirmation, citing his experience as a federal prosecutor in terrorism and narcotics cases, as well as his tenure on Trump’s legal team. They argue that his judicial philosophy represents a conservative shift in the federal courts during Trump’s second term.
“[Bove] has a strong legal background and has served his country honorably. I believe he will be diligent, capable, and a fair jurist. My Republican colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee agree,” shared GOP Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA).
Pam Bondi joined the chorus in celebration writing on X, “Congratulations to our dear friend Emil Bove on his confirmation to serve on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals! This is a GREAT day for our country. I cannot thank Emil enough for his tireless work and support at [DOJ]. He will be missed — and he will be an outstanding judge.”
The confirmation process saw Democrats stage a walkout during the Senate Judiciary Committee vote, protesting what they called a rushed, partisan process that ignored whistleblower concerns. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled the vote a “dark day” and questioned Bove’s impartiality as a prospective judge.
Bove will oversee appeals from New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Virgin Islands on the Third Circuit. His appointment marks a key victory for the Trump administration’s effort to reshape the federal judiciary with loyal conservative jurists
