Senator Schmitt Praises Trump’s Pick for Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals

Justin Smith Served as Schmitt’s Top Aide in Missouri Attorney General’s Office

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) released the following statement after Justin Smith was nominated by President Trump to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, the President’s first nominee to serve on the court from Missouri and his inaugural nominee to serve on the court in his second term. Smith served as Schmitt’s Chief of Staff and First Assistant in the Missouri Attorney General’s Office.

Smith’s nomination continues President Trump’s reshaping of Missouri’s federal bench. Upon Smith’s confirmation, a majority (nine) of Missouri’s 16 federal judges will have been appointed by President Trump, six of whom will have been appointed in the President’s second term—the most in the country.

“Justin Smith is one of the finest lawyers in the country. Justin served as my top advisor in the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and played a senior role on my team after I was elected to the Senate. I’m proud to see President Trump nominate him to serve our country on the prestigious Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals,” said Senator Schmitt. “In President Trump’s first term, he transformed our federal judiciary, including the Eighth Circuit, by appointing constitutionalists committed to upholding the rule of law. I’m confident Justin’s strong background defending our Constitution and fighting for Missouri will help continue this legacy. Justin Smith is an excellent pick—I look forward to his speedy confirmation.”

Smith’s nomination marks the latest Schmitt-alum to be tapped by President Trump to serve in the federal legal system.

1. John Sauer, Solicitor General, Department of Justice
2. Tom Albus, U.S. Attorney, Eastern District of Missouri
3. Cristian Stevens, District Judge, Eastern District of Missouri
4. Maria Lanahan, District Judge, Eastern District of Missouri
5. Zach Bluestone, District Judge, Eastern District of Missouri
6. Josh Divine, District Judge, Eastern and Western District of Missouri
7. Jesus Osete, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney, Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division
8. Michael Talent, Assistant Solicitor General, Department of Justice
9. Rachel Jag, Associate Deputy Attorney General, Department of Justice
10. Justin Smith, Circuit Judge, Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit

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