The Senate voted to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, making her America’s first Black female justice. The 53-47 vote will lead to Jackson taking a historical step to serve as the 116th Supreme Court pick. Claps and cheers erupted when Vice President Kamala Harris made the announcement.
The Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Courts Subcommittee— Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)— issued a statement about Jackson’s confirmation.
“Today, I proudly cast my vote to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to be the next Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. She will bring tremendous experience and skill to the Court, and will serve with distinction, as she has throughout her career in public service. And as a Black woman facing down many obstacles to arrive at this moment, she will be a shining example of perseverance and hope for generations to come,” Whitehouse said.
Other politicians echoed Whitehouse’s sentiments which incorporated racial equity, including Congressman G.K. Butterfield of N.C. While mentioning that America took a “giant leap” through Brown’s confirmation, Butterfield reminded that Brown is a solid selection.
“Judge Jackson’s qualification, experience, and sound judgment make her an excellent choice for the highest court in the land. She will be a fair and impartial champion for equal justice under the law,” Butterfield said in a press release.
Back in February, President Joe Bidden nominated Jackson to replace Justice Stephen Breyer, after his retirement was announced. Jackson will take her U.S. Supreme Court seat following his departure.
According to information issued online by The White House, Jackson was born in Washington, D.C., and graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University. Afterwards, she attended Harvard Law School. Judge Jackson was nominated by former president Barack Obama to become a district court judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in 2012. In 2013, Jackson was confirmed.
Details provided on The United States Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit’s website added information about Jackson’s journey beyond that time. Brown served as United States District Judge from 2013 until 2021. Additionally, her experience included serving as a Vice Chair and Commissioner on the United States Sentencing Commission. Brown’s previous work history included working as counsel at Morrison & Foerster LLP, and working in the appeals division of the Office of the Federal Public Defender in the District of Columbia as an Assistant Federal Public Defender.