President Biden and the Senate Democrats seem to have stumbled upon a problem that has foiled them like a bad hand at poker. With the Republicans holding onto the House like a toddler with their favorite toy, Biden’s ability to pass bipartisan legislation has gone out the window. The only option left is to appoint federal judges, with the Senate confirming them. But alas, fate hasn’t been on their side. Senator Dianne Feinstein’s health is a prominent hindrance that has left them scratching their heads.

You heard it right folks, Senator Feinstein has become a victim of the flu-like virus known as shingles, and it’s not going away anytime soon. Unfortunately, her condition has taken a toll on her memory and vocal ability. It seems like the only thing she remembers is the good ol’ days, reminiscing about her entire life in the Senate. Her situation has frozen the Senate Judiciary Committee, who are responsible for verifying any judicial candidates before the final vote takes place. How in the world are they going to solve this?

Biden and his team had high hopes of appointing judges left, right, and center this year. Aiming for a seat on federal trial courts, also known as District Courts, and appeals courts, famously called Circuit Courts. Unfortunately, that plan is out the window, and they’re back to square one. Apparently, they don’t have sufficient votes to confirm judges without Senator Feinstein. What a mess!

Oh, the irony! Around 20 potential nominees are left hanging in a lurch, and 9 percent of District Court and Circuit Court judgeships remain vacant. Among them, we have Monika Ramirez Almadani, a fierce civil rights lawyer, Robert Kirsch, a smart prosecutor who specialized in white-collar crime, and last but not least, Kato Crews, a labor law expert. What a waste of talent!

In summary, President Biden and his party are stuck between a rock and a hard place like a fish out of water. The Republicans hold onto the House, and Senator Feinstein’s unfortunate health condition has created a significant dent in their plans to fill in the vacant judge positions. So, the question remains, what will happen next? We don’t know. Maybe Senator Feinstein will miraculously make a comeback or a magic wand will suddenly make everything OK. We can only wait and see.

Serious News: nytimes