Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King says he will vote against Brett Talley, who has been nominated by President Donald Trump to become a federal district judge in Alabama.
Talley is the third Trump nominee to be rated as “unqualified” by the American Bar Association. He has never tried a case in court, and failed to disclose that he is married to a lawyer working for Trump.
With the unqualified rating from the ABA, King says that’s three strikes against Talley, who King doubts can “faithfully and independently serve on the federal bench.”
“As with all nominations before the Senate, I examine the nominee’s judicial philosophy and independence, and closely consider their record and qualifications. Having learned what I can about Mr. Talley, I am concerned his lack of experience in the courtroom would make it difficult for him to fulfill the significant responsibilities that come with a lifetime appointment to a federal judgeship,” he says.
In a written statement, Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins acknowledges that she is aware of the concerns raised about Talley, but says she is still reviewing the nomination and has not decided how she will vote on his confirmation.
‘I am currently reviewing Mr. Talley’s nomination, and I am aware of concerns raised by many, including the fact that he has never tried a case and did not disclose a potential conflict of interest. The Senate has not yet scheduled a vote on this nomination, and I will review it carefully before making a decision,” she says.
