In a recent Senate confirmation hearing, North Carolina Solicitor General Ryan Park, nominated for the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, faced tough questions about his legal work and past cases. If confirmed, Park would be the first Asian American judge on this court.
Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana expressed concerns, labeling Park as an “activist” who might “bend the law” based on personal beliefs, particularly questioning Park’s defense of a controversial voter identification law. Another Republican senator, Thom Tillis from North Carolina, claimed he had gathered sufficient support to block Park’s nomination from proceeding.
Despite the criticisms, Democrats defended Park, emphasizing his duty as a lawyer to represent the attorney general’s interests without personal bias. Park, during his testimony, assured that he would approach cases with impartiality and clarified that state solicitors do not set policy.
Park has garnered support from law enforcement organizations, including the National Fraternal Order of Police and the North Carolina Police Benevolent Association. His legal career includes arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court and extensive experience in appellate courts. Notably, Park previously clerked for Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and David Souter.
The Senate Judiciary Committee also reviewed other judicial nominations, including candidates for district courts in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Additionally, President Joe Biden announced further nominations for the Northern District of New York, the Northern District of Georgia, and the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
