Nomination By President Obama

Merrick Garland: Nomination and Confirmation to the Supreme Court

Nomination by President Obama

On March 16, 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Merrick Garland as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States to succeed the late Justice Antonin Scalia. Garland was a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, nominated by President Bill Clinton in 1997 and confirmed by a 76-23 vote in the Senate.

Senate Vetting

Garland's nomination was sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which held hearings on his nomination. On April 6, the committee voted 157 to advance Garland's nomination to the full Senate for a floor vote.

Lack of Vote in the Senate

Despite the committee's recommendation, the Republican-controlled Senate declined to vote on Garland's nomination, citing the upcoming presidential election. The Senate's refusal to vote on Garland's nomination was controversial and led to accusations of political maneuvering to block a Democratic nominee.

Presidential Candidates' Views

The presidential candidates at the time, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, expressed different views on Garland's nomination. Clinton supported Garland's confirmation, while Trump stated that he would nominate a conservative justice if elected.

Confirmation after Trump's Election

After Donald Trump won the presidential election in November 2016, Garland's nomination was withdrawn. Trump nominated Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, and Gorsuch was confirmed by the Senate in April 2017.