The Senate confirmed Natasha Merle to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York on June 21, 2023.Vice President Kamala Harris broke a 50-50 tie in an earlier procedural vote on the nomination.
Merle works on litigation for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. She is the first Black woman to be confirmed to this court.
The confirmation vote followed a heated debate on Merle’s qualifications. Republicans claimed she was too liberal, fearing bias in her rulings on race and gender. Democrats lauded her experience and dedication to justice.
The confirmation of Merle is a significant moment for Black women in the legal profession. She is the first Black woman confirmed to the Eastern District of New York. She is also only the second Black woman to serve on this court. Her confirmation shows progress in diversity on the federal bench.
