Senate confirms two judicial nominations

The Senate voted to confirm two New York judges on Thursday.

Lorna G. Schofield was confirmed on a 91-0 vote to be the U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of New York. 

Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Schofield had all three things he looks for in judicial nominations.

“I look for excellence, in judicial and legal knowledge — no hacks,” Schumer said. “Moderation ... and diversity.”

Schumer said that Schofield would be the first Filipino female judge confirmed to serve on the bench.

Frank Paul Geraci, Jr. was confirmed by voice-vote to be the U.S. District Judge for the Western District of New York.

Schumer called Geraci an “outstanding nominee.”

“His breadth and depth of his experience makes him a perfect fit for the Rochester area,” Schumer said.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he expected another judicial confirmation vote when senators return on Monday.

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